Membrane Glycoproteins A Review of Structure and Function

Membrane Glycoproteins: A Review of Structure and Function deals with membrane glycoproteins found in biological systems. The book describes the structure and biosynthesis of the glycoproteins in relation to known or postulated functions in membranes. The text opens with an introduction and a topic on detection and distribution of membrane glycoproteins. The book then notes that the isolation of membrane glycoproteins brought by the progress in research and technology of membrane solubilization and purification of the soluble components is now possible. Discussion is also directed to glycoproteins as being integral components of intracellular membranes, and not just located on cell surfaces. Through the structural analysis of glycoproteins produced by the secretory glands, analysis of human blood group antigens is available. Likewise, discoveries are made, explaining that lectins are useful reagents in detecting the type and numbers of glycoproteins found on cellular members. Lectins are likewise being widely used in tests for carbohydrate-containing substances in membrane-mediated processes. The metabolism, growth control, and cell surface reactions of membrane glycoproteins are also explained. The book can serve as a guide for biologists, chemists, biochemists, and academicians interested in the study of membranes or glycoproteins.