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Synthesis Of Functionalized Gpi Anchors And Related Glycoconjugates, Benjamin M. Swarts

Wayne State University Dissertations

This dissertation is divided into two chapters describing the background, significance, and synthesis of GPI anchors and GPI-anchored molecules. GPI anchors are a class of complex glycolipids with the primary purpose of attaching cell surface proteins/glycoproteins to the cell membrane. The first chapter is focused on the synthesis of functionalized GPI anchors, and begins with an introductory look at the discovery, structure, biosynthesis, and biological functions of GPIs. Then, after surveying progress and achievements in GPI synthesis, including discussion about current strategic shortcomings in the field that prevent the chemical synthesis of various GPI derivatives, our approach to accessing uniquely …