Molecular Aspects of Cancer-associated Glycans in Gliomas

Abstract

Mammalian cells express a variety of glycans on their cell surface. The pattern of the expressed glycans is closely regulated by glycosyltransferases, their doners and acceptors, glycosidases and related systems. In pre-disease and disease conditions, it is well known that the pattern of the expression of glycans is altered and unusual glycans are frequently generated, which leads to the disruption in glycan homeostasis. In cancer, the ectopic expression of those unusual glycans has been identified and they are considered to be cancer biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Here, I review the molecular functions of ganglioside GD3 and the heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan for enhancing the malignant phenotypes of glioma. The expression of these glycans on the cell surface strengthens cell signaling that is transduced through receptor type of tyrosine kinases (RTKs), especially the platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα). A concise discussion regarding the possibility of the development of GD3- or heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycan-targeting therapies for patients suffering from glioma is also included.