Glycan-binding nanobodies: A platform for diagnostics and therapeutics

The complex sugar structures known as glycans play critical roles in cell communication and are altered when cells become cancerous. Understanding and identifying cancer-related glycans helps diagnose and develop treatments for the diseases. However, the standard method of detecting glycans with antibodies is expensive and challenging. New methods are needed to improve their detection. This team is developing nanobody-based glycan-binding proteins that focus on a specific antigen that is prominent in cancer research and therapeutics.