glycosaminoglycan

noun

gly·​cos·​ami·​no·​gly·​can ˌglī-kō-sə-ˌmē-nō-ˈglī-ˌkan How to pronounce glycosaminoglycan (audio) -kō-ˌsa-mə-nō- How to pronounce glycosaminoglycan (audio)
: any of various polysaccharides derived from an amino hexose that are constituents of mucoproteins, glycoproteins, and blood-group substances

called also mucopolysaccharide

Examples of glycosaminoglycan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Studies have shown that the molecule, which is also known as a type of complex sugar called glycosaminoglycans, has wound-healing properties and binds water to molecules to hold that moisture in our epidermis. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 18 Feb. 2024 Glucosamine is known for its ability to stimulate the production of glycosaminoglycans, which are essential components of healthy cartilage. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 7 Aug. 2023 Glucosamine helps stimulate the production of glycosaminoglycans, which are essential components of healthy cartilage. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 25 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'glycosaminoglycan.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

glyc- + hexosamine (amine derived from a hexose) + -o- + glycan

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glycosaminoglycan was in 1962

Dictionary Entries Near glycosaminoglycan

Cite this Entry

“Glycosaminoglycan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glycosaminoglycan. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

glycosaminoglycan

noun
gly·​cos·​ami·​no·​gly·​can ˌglī-kō-sə-ˌmē-nō-ˈglī-ˌkan How to pronounce glycosaminoglycan (audio) -kō-ˌsam-ə-nō- How to pronounce glycosaminoglycan (audio)
: any of various polysaccharides derived from an amino hexose that are constituents of mucoproteins, glycoproteins, and blood-group substances

called also mucopolysaccharide

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