Question

Identify various functions of the glycocalyx in eukaryotic cells

Answer 1

Although glycocalyces are more often present in prokaryotic cells, eukaryotic cells can also have glycocalyces especially single celled eukaryotic organisms. The glycocalyx in eukaryotic cells perform very much the same functions as that of the prokaryotic cells' glycocalyx. It functions for cell to cell interaction, for adhesion to surfaces, and lastly for protection.

Answer 2

Eukaryotes are the class of cells which have a nucleus and organelles that are separated by cell membranes. Glycocalyx coats the membrane of such sells, where it can serve several functions. The glycocalyx can act as a kind of sensor that allows the cell to identify and exclude foreign bodies, it can act as an agent of adhesion that holds tissues together, can enable communication between cells (as when glycocalyx aids the sperm in identifying an egg), as well as numerous other functions.