Exploration and exploitation of the uncommon pH profile of the dynamic covalent interactions between boronic acids and N-acetylneuraminic acids

In this review, the chemical mechanisms behind the interactions between boronic acids and N-acetylneuraminic acids, which have been widely utilized in biomedicine in recent decades, will be examined. It will also be highlighted that the affinity of boronic acids for N-acetylneuraminic acids is dependent on pH and is complementary to their affinity for other common monosaccharides found in glycocalyces. Through various examples from the literature, the unique pH profile of the boronic – N-acetylneuraminic acids acid interaction and its uses in biomedicine will be illustrated.