Chapter 13 - Genetic and Structural Analysis of the Glycoprotein and Glycolipid Glycans of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the glycans of Drosophila melanogaster, an organism selected by a growing number of investigators as a system of choice for breaking new ground in glycobiology. In the past, discoveries in Drosophilaglycobiology have found structural or functional parallels in vertebrates, including mammals. In some cases, these common themes have evolved out of genetic characterization of interesting phenotypes and in other instances targeted investigations have pursued homologous glycan-processing components or specific glycan structural classes. The results of the genetic and structural analysis of the glycoprotein and glycolipid glycans have synergized with enhanced structural analysis, generating new routes for linking phenotypes to glycan expression. In the hopes of catalyzing further associations between glycan function and structure, current knowledge regarding the diversity of N-linked, O-linked, and glycosphingolipid glycans in Drosophilais summarized.Within the constraints of this contribution it is not possible to adequately encompass the important and rapid advances in characterizing Drosophilaglycosaminoglycan structure and function. Relevant functional, biosynthetic, and genetic studies are highlighted. The analysis gives rise to a simple rule: Drosophilaelaborates its own complexity, but in restricted contexts, and only as is needed to meet specific developmental or functional requirements. Advances in cell signaling, developmental patterning, cell fate selection, axon pathfinding, and the formation of epithelial polarity arise from understanding the contribution of glycans to Drosophiladevelopment and cellular function.