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Since the deciphering of the human genome, much of research on it has been transferred to the study of the proteome, the proteins made from the genetic "blueprints" stored in our cells. After all, proteins carry out most of the work in the body and understanding how they behave should help researchers figure out how to treat most illnesses. However, cells not only consist of genes and proteins, but also of carbohydrates (sugars) and lipids (fats). Carbohydrates, which were once regarded as energy-yielding molecules, are now known to combine with the cell surfaces and influence cell-to-cell communication, the immune system, the ability of various agents to make us sick, and the progression of cancer. Even at the simplest level, a better understanding and control of sugars improves existing therapies. Enhanced control of sugars improves the effectiveness of proteins made by recombinant DNA. To work effectively, certain proteins must have particular sugars attached to the