Globotetraose

Gb4

Globotetraose, also known as Gb4, is a specific oligosaccharide composed of four sugar units. Its structure is GalNAc(α1-3)Gal(β1-3)Gal(β1-4)Glc(β1-1)Cer, a terminal carbohydrate chain found on the surface of mammalian cells as a part of glycolipids called globosides. This compound is a key antigen, specifically related to the P blood group system. It is also a binding site for various pathogens, including certain bacteria and viruses, which use it to attach to host cells.