Answer
The glycocalyx is a fuzzy coat surrounding the external parts of the plasma membrane. One of its major purposes is helping identify foreign tissues and unhealthy cells. This coat also helps the cell protect itself, allows fertilization to take place, and aids in the process of cell adhesion.
Work Step by Step
Because the glycocalyx is chemically unique in every organism, except for identical twins, it helps the body fight off cancer and defend itself from foreign organisms by allowing it to recognize which cells or tissues could be harmful to the body. The glycocalyx also permits the sperm to recognize and bind to the female egg, playing an important role in conception and fertility. Furthermore, it allows for the process of cell adhesion to take place since it contains many of the proteins and molecules that are responsible for binding to other cells or extracellular materials.
