Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure include bispecific molecules. The bispecific molecules comprise a cell-targeting moiety and a glycan-binding moiety. According to some embodiments, the cell-targeting moiety is a cancer cell-targeting moiety or an immune cell-targeting moiety. In certain embodiments, the glycan-binding moiety comprises the sialoglycan-binding domain of a lectin, non-limiting examples of which are sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (Siglecs). The bispecific molecules may take a variety of forms including heterodimeric molecules, fusion proteins, conjugates, and the like. Compositions, kits and methods of using the bifunctional molecules, e.g., for therapeutic purposes, are also provided.

Abstract: Provided are methods of enhancing immunogenicity of cancers. In certain aspects, the methods include administering an effective amount of a sialic acid modulator to an individual identified as having a cancer comprising dysregulated Myc. According to some aspects, the methods include administering an effective amount of a disialyl-T modulator to an individual identified as having a cancer comprising cell surface expression of disialyl-T. In certain aspects, the methods include administering an effective amount of an agent to an individual identified as having a cancer comprising cell surface expression of a glycoprotein comprising an O-glycosylated mucin-like domain, where the agent modulates the glycoprotein. Also provided are methods of assessing whether a cancer of an individual comprises dysregulated Myc.