GalNAc

GalNAc, short for N-Acetylgalactosamine, finds its application in targeted drug delivery, particularly for the liver. Here’s how it works:

Target: GalNAc targets the Asialoglycoprotein Receptor (ASGPR) on liver cells. ASGPR is abundant and specifically recognizes GalNAc molecules.

Conjugation: GalNAc is attached to therapeutic molecules, such as siRNA (small interfering RNA) or antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). These therapeutic molecules need a delivery system to reach their target site in the body.

Delivery: When the GalNAc-conjugated molecule is injected into the bloodstream, the GalNAc moiety acts like a key that unlocks the ASGPR on liver cells. This specific interaction allows the therapeutic molecule to be efficiently delivered into the liver cells.