3α,4β,3α-Galactotetraose (CAS 56038-38-1)

3α,4β,3α-Galactotetraose is a complex oligosaccharide that plays a pivotal role in glycobiology research, especially in studies related to carbohydrate-based interactions in biological systems. This tetrasaccharide, consisting of galactose units linked by specific glycosidic bonds, serves as an essential tool for investigating the specificity and mechanism of glycosidases and glycosyltransferases—enzymes critical for the synthesis and breakdown of glycan structures. Its unique structure enables the study of carbohydrate recognition by lectins, which are proteins that bind sugar molecules and mediate cellular interactions and signaling pathways. Research utilizing 3α,4β,3α-Galactotetraose often focuses on elucidating how these sugar molecules influence cellular recognition processes, such as cell adhesion, immune response modulation, and pathogen invasion. Furthermore, this oligosaccharide is used in the development of synthetic glycans that mimic natural structures, aiding in the exploration of their biological functions and their potential role in modulating biological processes. The insights gained from these studies contribute significantly to the understanding of glycoscience, particularly in how sugars affect complex biological systems and their potential to influence biochemical pathways.