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glycans, automated glycan assembly, 19F NMR, lectins, protein-glycan interactions
Abstract:
Protein‐glycan interactions mediate important biological processes, including pathogen host invasion and cellular communication. Major challenges to monitoring these low affinity interactions are the required high sensitivity of a biophysical assay and to cover a breath of synthetic well‐defined structures. Here, we showcase an expedite approach that integrates automated glycan assembly (AGA) of 19 F labelled probes and high‐throughput NMR methods, enabling the study of protein‐glycan interactions. Synthetic Lewis type 2 antigens were screened against seven glycan binding proteins (GBPs), including DC‐SIGN and BambL, respectively involved in HIV‐1 and lung infections in immunocompromised patients, confirming the preference for fucosylated glycans (Le x , H type 2, Le y ). Previously unknown glycan‐lectin weak interactions were detected, and thermodynamic data were obtained. Enzymatic reactions were monitored in real‐time, delivering kinetic parameters. These results demonstrate the utility of AGA combined with 19 F NMR for the discovery and characterization of glycan‐protein interactions, opening up new perspectives for 19 F labelled complex glycans.