Synthesis and biological application of glycopolymers

Saccharides on the cell surfaces participate in a number of biochemical phenomena via the protein-saccharide interaction. Synthetic glycopolymers mimic the function of the cell-surface saccharides and efficiently interact with proteins, cells, and pathogens based on the multivalent effect. Since the biological functions of saccharides are paid much attention, the glycopolymers are being increasingly explored as biomaterials for medicinal application and tissue engineering. This review presents a practical approach of glycopolymers. The glycopolymers were prepared by the facile syntheses of poly(vinyl saccharide)s and the physical and biological properties were introduced. (c) 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.