Large polysaccharide molecules of the extracellular matrix, which often combine with proteins to form proteoglycans.
(GAGs). Polysaccharides that comprise repeating disaccharide units of amino-sugar derivatives that are covalently bonded to proteins to function as proteoglycans. Four types of GAG exist according to their sugar residues, and sulphate group numbers and location: chondroitan sulphate and dermatan sulphate; heparin sulphate and heparin; keratan sulphate and hyaluronan.
Large molecules found in the dermis that contains sugar and protein helping to maintain moisture levels within the skin.
Long-chain polysaccharide (large complex carbohydrate) molecules found predominantly on the surface of cells and in extracellular matrices. They are water-binding and viscous, so provide cellular lubrication, cushioning and structural support. The most important glycosaminoglycans in the body are: hyaluronic acid, dermatan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, heparin, heparan sulfate, and keratan sulfate.
Are a major component of proteoglycans, which make up articular cartilage.
Long chains of modified sugars that are the main component of proteoglycan.
Large, chain-like molecules of polysaccharide linked with a protein that form the major constituents of the Extracellular matrix of the dermis.
polysaccharides composed of repeating disaccharide units in which one sugar is either N-acetylgalactosamine or N-acetylglucosamine. Typically the disaccharide unit carries a c arboxyl group and often one or more sulfates, so that most glycosaminoglycans have a high density of negative charges.
Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are large polysaccharide chains that are made up of repeating disaccharide units that are negatively charged and hold a large amount of water compared to other ECM molecules. GAGs provide a majority of the resistance to compression in tissues while collagen molecules provide tensile strength (resistance to breaking or tearing). GAGs are typically found bound to the core proteins of proteoglycans, and examples include dermatan sulphate proteoglycan, keratin sulphate proteoglycan and hyaluronic acid.
Proteoglycans are large molecules that attract and hold water thereby providing cushioning for the joint. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are a type of proteoglycan. Glucosamine is a precursor of GAGs.
