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Abstract

Algae synthesise structurally complex glycans to build a pro-tective barrier, the extracellular matrix. One function of matrix glycans is to slow down microorganisms that try to enzymati-cally enter living algae and degrade and convert their organic carbon back to carbon dioxide. We propose that matrix glycans lock up carbon in the ocean by controlling degradation of organic carbon by bacteria and other microbes not only while algae are alive, but also after death. Data revised in this review shows accumulation of algal glycans in the ocean under-scoring the challenge bacteria and other microbes face to breach the glycan barrier with carbohydrate active enzymes. Briefly we also update on methods required to certify the un-certain magnitude and unknown molecular causes of glycan-controlled carbon sequestration in a changing ocean.