Modifications of human total serum N-glycome during liver fibrosis-cirrhosis, is it all about immunoglobulins?

The study of the total serum N-glycome during liver cirrhosis has demonstrated numerous alterations. The identification of the glycoproteins carrying these modifications and their relative contribution to the modification of the total serum N-glycome has shown the important role of IgA and IgG. The possible mechanisms of glycosylation alteration of the Igs and of liver secreted glycoproteins, the consequences in the pathophysiology of cirrhosis and their relation to the biomarkers of liver diseases are also discussed in the present review.