Research Topic · Peer-Reviewed

Glycocalyx

The glycocalyx is a thin, sticky layer of carbohydrate molecules that covers the surface of many types of cells. It acts like a protective coating, providing an interface between the cell and its environment. The glycocalyx also enables cells to interact with and recognize other cells, to adhere to surfaces, and to …

Curated from this journal's research 📚 1 peer-reviewed article cited Cited 13× across the literature 🗓 Reviewed June 2026

Overview

The glycocalyx is a thin, sticky layer of carbohydrate molecules that covers the surface of many types of cells. It acts like a protective coating, providing an interface between the cell and its environment. The glycocalyx also enables cells to interact with and recognize other cells, to adhere to surfaces, and to move and guide the flow of molecules across their outer surface. It is an essential component in the functioning of many parts of the body, such as the digestive and circulatory systems, the immune system and other organs. It also plays a role in several diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases. Glycocalyx research is actively being conducted to uncover its importance and to develop new drug and therapeutic treatments.

Research published in this journal

1 peer-reviewed article, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.

How this research is being cited

The 1 article above has been cited 13 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.

A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Glycocalyx, linking to each citing work.

Editorial oversight

Curated from peer-reviewed research published in International Journal of Cell.

Journal editorial board
Faiz Ul Amin · Korea, Democratic People's Rep Yuping Li · United States Hong WAN · United Kingdom

This page summarises published research for orientation; it is not medical or professional advice.