Glycoblotting-Based Ovo-Sulphoglycomics Reveals Phosphorylated N -Glycans as a Possible Host Factor of AIV Prevalence in Waterfowls.

Sulfated N -glycans play a crucial role in the interaction between influenza A virus (IAV) and its host. These glycans have been found to enhance viral replication, highlighting their significance in IAV propagation. This study investigated the expression of acidic N -glycans, specifically sulfated and phosphorylated glycans, in the egg whites of 72 avian species belonging to the Order Anseriformes (waterfowls). We used the glycoblotting-based sulphoglycomics approach to elucidate the diversity of acidic N -glycans and infer their potential role in protecting embryos from infections. Family-specific variations in sulfated and phosphorylated N -glycan profiles were identified in waterfowl egg whites. Different waterfowl species exhibited distinct expressions of sulfated trans -Gal(+) and trans -Gal(-) N -glycan structures. Additionally, species-specific expression of phosphorylated N -glycans was observed. Furthermore, it was found that waterfowl species with high avian influenza virus (AIV) prevalence displayed a higher abundance of phosphorylated hybrid and high-mannose N -glycans on their egg whites. These findings shed light on the importance of phosphorylated and sulfated N -glycans in understanding the role of acidic glycans in IAV propagation.