An enzymatic process by which sugars are attached to proteins. Although the term "non-enzymatic glycosylation" is common, "glycation" is the word that is used to describe the non-enzymatic attachment of sugars to proteins. Glycosylation is reversible, wheras glycation is either irreversible, or leads to Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). This protein cross-linking is characteristic of long-life proteins and is notable in the eye and in collagen. It is likened to "rusting" of tissue and contributes to the aging process. Also: Glycation

	Alpha Lipoic Acid As A Treatment "...Lipoic acid, like insulin, reduces glycation, enhancing the movement of blood sugar into our cells..." Alzheimer's Disease Our Question about duration of reasonably-controlled diabetes "...The researchers noted that advanced glycation endproducts (AGE), proteins damaged by chronically high blood sugar levels, are commonly found inside these tangles..." Aminoguanidine As A Treatment "...Diabetics suffer from an accelerated rate of glycosylation, and many of the premature degenerative diseases common in Type I and Type II diabetes is attributed to the glycosylation process..." Chromium Related Topic "...By controlling blood sugar, chromium helps prevent the damage caused by glucose, which is called glycation..." Diabetes Type I Relationship to Alzheimer's Disease "...The researchers noted that advanced glycation endproducts (AGE), proteins damaged by chronically high blood sugar levels, are commonly found inside these tangles..." Diabetes Type II Relationship to Alzheimer's Disease "...The researchers noted that advanced glycation endproducts (AGE), proteins damaged by chronically high blood sugar levels, are commonly found inside these tangles..."

Last updated: May 10, 2007