4-O-(α-D-Mannopyranosyl)-D-mannose (CAS 35438-40-5)

4-O-(α-D-Mannopyranosyl)-D-mannose is a biologically relevant disaccharide where two mannose molecules are linked via an α-(1→4) glycosidic bond, providing a unique tool for the study of carbohydrate biochemistry and glycobiology. This specific linkage is instrumental in understanding the synthesis, breakdown, and biological recognition of glycan structures, as α-linked mannose structures are less common and behave differently than the more typical β-linked polysaccharides found in nature. In research, this compound is extensively utilized to probe the specificity and mechanism of action of enzymes such as glycosyltransferases and glycosidases, which are critical for the processing of sugars in biological systems. By studying how these enzymes interact with 4-O-(α-D-Mannopyranosyl)-D-mannose, scientists gain insights into the fundamental processes of glycan assembly and disassembly, crucial for cellular communication and pathogen-host interactions. This disaccharide also serves as a valuable model for exploring the structural factors that affect the stability and reactivity of glycosidic bonds, thereby enhancing our understanding of the structural biology of carbohydrates and their complex roles in various biological processes.