Application of bioanalytical and computational methods in decoding the roles of glycans in host-pathogen interactions.

Host-pathogen interactions (HPIs) are complex processes that require tight regulation. A common regulatory mechanism of HPIs is through glycans of either host cells or pathogens. Due to their diverse sequences, complex structures, and conformations, studies of glycans require highly sensitive and powerful tools. Recent improvements in technology have enabled the application of many bioanalytical techniques and modeling methods to investigate glycans and their mechanisms in HPIs. This mini-review highlights how these advances have been used to understand the role glycans play in HPIs in the past 2 years.