glycoprotein
/ˌɡlaɪkoʊˈproʊtiːn/
noun
- A molecule made of a protein attached to a carbohydrate (sugar), found in living cells and important for cell communication, immunity, and structure.
- Scientists study glycoproteins to understand how cancer cells spread in the body.
- Mucus contains glycoproteins that keep the lining of your nose and lungs moist and sticky.
- Glycoproteins on the surface of cells help the immune system recognize invaders like viruses.