Title:   Advances in Glycosylation Analysis: From CDGs to Cancer Biomarkers Using Mass Spectrometry

Speakers: Marek Nemčovič and Maroš Krchňák from the Glycobiology Department, Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS), Slovak Republic

Link to online session: https://ucibio.pt/l/GuestSeminars

Host: Paula Videira, UCIBIO NOVA

Abstract:

Brief introduction of Slovak Institute, with particular emphasis on the Glycobiology Department over the past decade. Discussion on the application of mass spectrometry in the structural characterization of N-glycans from various sources, as well as in the profiling of total N-glycan compositions using multiple methodologies and mass spectrometry platforms. Focus on the application of glycosylation analysis in the context of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDGs), and the identification of biomarkers for α-mannosidosis, monitoring therapeutic outcomes, and techniques for biomarker discovery in colorectal cancer patients.

Get to know more about the speakers:

Marek Nemčovič

During my PhD studies, my initial research focused on filamentous microscopic fungi, particularly on the enzymatic pathways involved in cell wall biosynthesis and the potential application of these organisms in the biological control of phytopathogenic species. This work resulted in the patenting of two Trichoderma strains, which remain in commercial use today. Subsequent postdoctoral fellowships at the University of California and the La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology marked a transition to research in human biology. Early work in this phase employed X-ray crystallography to study the interactions between glycosphingolipids and immune system components, with an emphasis on their therapeutic potential. Later, efforts have concentrated on the implementation and refinement of mass spectrometry-based methodologies for the analysis of human diseases, with a particular focus on protein post-translational modifications - most notably glycosylation.

Maroš Krchňák

My PhD research was focused on HPLC and MS qualitative and quantitative analysis of glycobiomarkers in congenital disorders of glycosylation, lysosomal storage disorders and cancer. The aim was to develop mass spectrometry-based methods for diagnostics and therapy monitoring of these diseases via the analysis of N- and O-glycans, as well as free oligosaccharides in serum and urine samples. During my study stay at Griffith University, Australia, I started with the LC-MS analysis of glycopeptides, which we have successfully implemented at our lab as well. My current work is focused on optimising the aforementioned methods for use with cell models and for the analysis of glycosaminoglycans.