Next-generation glycocluster for achieving pattern recognition in living system

The glycan plays an important role in cellular recognition in living system by utilizing "cluster effect" and "pattern recognition". In order to understand the structure-function relationship of glycan to a full extent, the mimicry of these effects by chemical method is in demand. We combined the strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition and our original RIKEN click reaction to synthesize homogeneous and heterogeneous glycocluster chemically on the albumin template. With these glycoclusters, specific cellular recognition could be achieved both in vitro and in vivo, depending on the lectin expression on the target cells. We also accomplished the first organ- selective metal-catalyzed organic reaction in living animal using the glycocluster system.