Glycocalyx

2016, V. C. Hascall, P. H. Weigel, B. P. Toole, Hyalurolan, Ralph A. Bradshaw, Philip D. Stahl, Gerald W. Hart (editors), Encyclopedia of Cell Biology, Volume 1: Molecular Cell Biology, Elesvier (Academic Press), page 280, Most cells are able to dynamically synthesize hyaluronan and form cell-associated glycocalyces that include chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (e.g., versican and aggrecan) bound to the hyaluronan (Figure 4).

Blood platelets and megakaryocytes from which they arise, both have ruthenium red positive glycocalyces in the form of globular particles; ruthenium red is known to react strongly with chondroitin sulphate.

The microvilli are in turn covered with a velvety meshwork made of countless sugar-based structures that look a little bit like antlers. These are called the glycocalyxes.

In cancer, the glycocalyxes of circulating tumor cells play a fundamental role in the metastatic process.