Diversity in the sialic acids

摘要: Historical background It is now more than 50 years since N-acetyl-neuraminic acid was first discovered and subsequently characterized by several groups (reviewed in Roseman, 1970; Gottschalk, 1972; Rosenberg Schengrund, 1976; Schauer, 1982; Faillard, 1989). Relatively soon after its discovery, it became apparent that this molecule actually the major member of a family compounds related to neuraminic were christened 'sialic acids' (Blix etai, 1957). Early studies paid close attention different types sialic acids interrelationships between them. However, interest these complexities waned unpublished 'folk-lore' had modified species-specific curiosities found only few tissues, such as erythrocytes submaxillary glands. In fact, many investigators 1970s 80s used terms W-acetyl-neuraminic acid' synonymously. Thus, for example, when structural or biological changes noted following treatments with sialidase (neuraminidase), often assumed released A^-acetyl-neuraminic acid. clear tjiat are much widely distributed previously thought. This review attempts briefly summarize current knowledge concerning occurrence, structure, biochemistry significance diversity acids. Particular given two most common better studied modifications: addition 0-acetyl esters hydroxyl at 4-, 7-, 8- 9-positions, conversion 7V-acetyl group an /V-glycolyl group. Given breadth review, bibliography representative, tends emphasize recent studies.