Hidden sugar patterns on human cells could reveal cancer early
Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have discovered a 'sugar code' on human cells that could aid in early disease detection. Using a technique called Glycan Atlasing, they mapped sugar structures on cell surfaces, revealing that these patterns change based on the cell's activity. This breakthrough may lead to new diagnostic methods for diseases like cancer by analyzing these sugar patterns.
- ▪The study reveals that the glycocalyx, a sugar layer on cells, changes its structure based on the cell's condition.
- ▪Researchers found that these sugar patterns can distinguish between healthy and cancerous tissues.
- ▪The Glycan Atlasing technique allows for detailed mapping of sugar structures at the molecular level.
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| Original publisher | ScienceDaily |
| Canonical URL | https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260517211431.htm |
| Publication time | Mon, 18 May 2026 19:57:14 EDT |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-18T23:59:56.959Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-18T23:59:56.959Z |
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Science News from research organizations Hidden sugar patterns on human cells could reveal cancer early Human cells may secretly advertise their health status through shifting sugar patterns — and scientists just learned how to read the signals. Date: May 18, 2026 Source: Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light Summary: Scientists have uncovered a hidden “sugar code” on the surface of human cells that could transform how diseases are detected. Using an advanced imaging technique called Glycan Atlasing, researchers at the Max Planck Institute mapped the tiny sugar structures coating cells and discovered that these patterns shift depending on what the cell is doing.
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