The Role of O-GlcNAcylation in Immune Cell Activation

O-GlcNAcylation is a dynamic post-translational modification where the sugar, O-linked beta-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) is added to or removed from various cytoplasmic, nuclear, and mitochondrial proteins. This modification is regulated by only two enzymes: O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), which adds O-GlcNAc, and O-GlcNAcase (OGA), which removes the sugar from proteins. O-GlcNAcylation is integral to maintaining normal cellular function, especially in processes such as nutrient sensing, metabolism, transcription, and growth and development of the cell. Aberrant O-GlcNAcylation has been associated with a number of pathological conditions, including, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. However, the role of O-GlcNAcylation in immune cell growth/proliferation, or other immune responses, is currently incompletely understood. In this review, we highlight the effects of O-GlcNAcylation on certain cells of the immune system, especially those involved in pro-inflammatory responses associated with diabetes and obesity.

Automated summary

O-GlcNAcylation is a crucial post-translational modification that plays a key role in maintaining normal cellular function, while aberrant O-GlcNAcylation has been associated with various pathological conditions. Although its role in immune cell growth is not fully understood, its impact on inflammation responses associated with diabetes and obesity has been highlighted.