Sequencing complex polysaccharides.

Although rapid sequencing of polynucleotides and polypeptides has become commonplace, it has not been possible to rapidly sequence femto- to picomole amounts of tissue-derived complex polysaccharides. Heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (HLGAGs) were readily sequenced by a combination of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry and a notation system for representation of polysaccharide sequences. This will enable identification of sequences that are critical to HLGAG biological activities in anticoagulation, cell growth, and differentiation.