Papers often state that E. Coli does not glycosylate glycoproteins,
hence recombinant proteins are assumed to lack saccharides entirely. I
have not been able to find published evidence (e.g., Mass Spec) to support
this assumption. Is it possible that recombinant proteins have some type
of sugar modification (albeit not the typical N-linked core)?
As well, I have not seen review articles that trace the beginnings
and evolution of glycoprotein glycosylation. Does glycoprotein
glycosylation spring full-blown as the eukaryotic cell appears? Are there
any precursor processes in prokaryotes? Is anyone aware of work in this
area? (please reply to the net)
Neil Smalheiser
sma2 at midway.uchicago.edu
