Abstract: Provided are methods of collecting, detecting and altering cells and molecular entities using glycoprotein micelles and vesicles. Glycoprotein vesicles comprising a glycoprotein micelle, at least a monolayer of lectin and/or a monolayer of biologically active glycoproteins are also provided. The invention further provides methods of detecting protein glycosylation using the vesicles of the invention.

Abstract: Provided are methods of collecting, detecting and altering cells and molecular entities using glycoprotein micelles and vesicles. Glycoprotein vesicles comprising a glycoprotein micelle, at least a monolayer of lectin and/or a monolayer of biologically active glycoproteins are also provided. The invention further provides methods of detecting protein glycosylation using the vesicles of the invention.

Abstract: Spontaneous formation of a coherent membrane at the interface between a non-polar liquid and an aqueous solution of glycoprotein can be used to separate proteins and carbohydrates from tissue fluid and other complex mixtures. When volatile hydrocarbons are used to induce membrane formation, evaporation of organic and aqueous solvents leaves behind a delicate film or powder. The method for extracting glycoprotein from solution and sequestering it in floating membranes can be used to study environmental conditions or to remove carbohydrates from proteins in the tissues of living organisms. This technique can also be used for detecting proteins in solutions.

Abstract: Synthetic membranes, micelles and vesicles are formed in response to the spontaneous orientation of hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups in aqueous media. The oligosaccharide moieties of glycoprotein molecules are oriented toward the aqueous environment. The micelles of the present invention are relatively stable in aqueous environments, and thus are useful for transporting substances that can be dissolved or suspended in lipids for inclusion in the micelles. Lipo-glycoprotein micelles are also useful for protecting substances contained within the hydrophobic compartment from dispersal or degradation until the micelle structure is disrupted.

Abstract: Synthetic membranes, micelles and vesicles are formed in response to the spontaneous orientation of hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups in aqueous media. The oligosaccharide moieties of glycoprotein molecules are oriented toward the aqueous environment. The micelles of the present invention are relatively stable in aqueous environments, and thus are useful for transporting substances that can be dissolved or suspended in lipids for inclusion in the micelles. Lipo-glycoprotein micelles are also useful for protecting substances contained within the hydrophobic compartment from dispersal or degradation until the micelle structure is disrupted.