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Multifaceted role of glycosylation in transfusion medicine, platelets, and red blood cells
Author(s) -
LeeSundlov Melissa M.,
Stowell Sean R.,
Hoffmeister Karin M.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of thrombosis and haemostasis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.947
H-Index - 178
eISSN - 1538-7836
pISSN - 1538-7933
DOI - 10.1111/jth.14874
Subject(s) - abo blood group system , glycan , hemostasis , immunology , platelet , glycosylation , glycobiology , biology , immune system , medicine , glycoprotein , microbiology and biotechnology , biochemistry
Glycosylation is highly prevalent, and also one of the most complex and varied posttranslational modifications. This large glycan diversity results in a wide range of biological functions. Functional diversity includes protein degradation, protein clearance, cell trafficking, cell signaling, host‐pathogen interactions, and immune defense, including both innate and acquired immunity. Glycan‐based ABO(H) antigens are critical in providing compatible products in the setting of transfusion and organ transplantation. However, evidence also suggests that ABO expression may influence cardiovascular disease, thrombosis, and hemostasis disorders, including alterations in platelet function and von Willebrand factor blood levels. Glycans also regulate immune and hemostasis function beyond ABO(H) antigens. Mutations in glycogenes ( PIGA, COSMC ) lead to serious blood disorders, including Tn syndrome associated with hyperagglutination, hemolysis, and thrombocytopenia. Alterations in genes responsible for sialic acids (Sia) synthesis ( GNE ) and UDP‐galactose ( GALE ) and lactosamine (LacNAc) ( B4GALT1 ) profoundly affect circulating platelet counts. Desialylation (removal of Sia) is affected by human and pathogenic neuraminidases. This review addresses the role of glycans in transfusion medicine, hemostasis and thrombosis, and red blood cell and platelet survival.