GDP-ManA

Guanosine 5'-diphospho-D-mannuronic acid trisodium salt is a nucleotide sugar. It is involved in the biosynthesis of various polysaccharides and glycoconjugates in certain organisms, primarily in bacterial and plant cell wall biosynthesis. GDP-mannuronic acid is often used in studies of polysaccharide synthesis, particularly alginate biosynthesis in bacteria like Pseudomonas and Azotobacter . Structure & Properties : Molecular Weight (MW) : Typically around 600-650 g/mol (depending on the exact salt form). Chemical Formula : C16H21N5Na3O18P2 (estimate based on similar compounds, but may vary slightly depending on hydration state) Synonyms : GDP-Mannuronic acid trisodium salt, Guanosine diphospho-D-mannuronic acid trisodium salt CAS Number : Not widely available for this specific compound, but similar GDP-sugar analogs are often used in research contexts. Biological Role : Biosynthesis : This compound serves as a sugar donor in glycosylation reactions, particularly in the synthesis of polysaccharides like alginate in bacteria. Alginate is a key structural component of biofilms and is important in bacterial virulence and defense. Function : It acts as a substrate for glycosyltransferase enzymes that catalyze the transfer of mannuronic acid residues during the biosynthesis of polysaccharides like alginate. In plants, GDP-sugars are involved in the synthesis of hemicelluloses and pectins. Applications : Polysaccharide Biosynthesis Studies : Used to study the formation of bacterial extracellular polysaccharides such as alginate, which are important for biofilm formation and bacterial pathogenesis. Enzyme Assays : It is often used in assays to study glycosyltransferases involved in alginate and other polysaccharide synthesis pathways. Biofilm Research : Essential in understanding biofilm-related infections and developing treatments targeting biofilm formation. Glycobiology Research : It is important in the study of glycan synthesis and modifications. Storage and Stability : Storage : Typically stored at -20°C in a dry, sealed container to protect it from moisture and degradation. Stability : Stable under recommended storage conditions, but sensitive to moisture and should be handled with care. Significance in Research : Bacterial Research : Its role in alginate biosynthesis makes it significant in studies related to bacterial pathogenicity, particularly in diseases like cystic fibrosis where Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms are a major concern. Material Science : Alginate, derived from this compound, has applications in drug delivery systems, wound healing, and as a food additive. This compound is particularly valuable in microbiology and glycoscience research, providing insights into polysaccharide biosynthesis and its implications for health and disease.