Sialic acids in cancer biology and immunity—recent advancements
Sandra J. van Vliet, Yvette van Kooyk
Abstract
Tumors frequently display an aberrant glycosylation profile, often characterized by a hyperexpression of sialylated glycan moieties. Here, we provide a holistic view on how sialylation alters cellular behavior in the tumor niche that not only includes tumor cells but also comprises the intricate interplay of cancer cells with stromal cells, such as fibroblasts and immune cells. We discuss how sialylation alters tumor cell biology, migration, and metastasis, as well as how it impacts local infiltration of immune cell subsets, their differentiation, and function via Siglec receptors. Recent advances in biomarker discovery and therapeutics to interfere in these processes through sialic acid inhibitors, mimetics, and targeted therapeutics will furthermore be highlighted.