Thromb Haemost 2019; 119(08): 1265-1273
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1692720
Theme Issue Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Glycans and Glycan-Binding Proteins in Atherosclerosis

Veit Eckardt
1   Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
,
Christian Weber
1   Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
2   German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
,
1   Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
2   German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Funding This work was supported by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (SFB914 B08 [to C.W.], SFB1123 A1 [to C.W.], A2 [to P.v.H], INST 409/150–1 FUGG [to C.W.]).
Further Information

Publication History

08 March 2019

14 May 2019

Publication Date:
02 July 2019 (online)

Zoom Image

Abstract

Complex glycans are readily accessible on the endothelium and on cell and plasma components. They interact with glycan-binding proteins which translate their structure into function. Advanced analytical tools are available to investigate their structure and functional interactions. Modifications to glycan structures which alter their capacity to bind proteins are particularly relevant in atherosclerosis. We summarize the regulatory role of glycans and their binding partners in the development of the disease. Given their complexity, accessibility, and important functional role, glycans and glycan-binding proteins represent promising diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets.

Note: The review process for this paper was fully handled by Gregory Y. H. Lip, Editor-in-Chief.