What are the chemical components of a glycocalyx?

The glycocalyx is a thick outer layer of the plasma membrane. It is made up of strands of sugars and proteins bound together. The result is a thick, sticky layer that helps cells stay in high-stress environments. Glycocalyx helps important vascular cells to adhere to blood vessels such as white blood cells and platelets, which are involved in blood clotting. Also, glycocalyx is found in the digestive system. Our small intestine is responsible for absorbing all the nutrients that enter through the digestive system. To do this, they have many tiny folds called microvilli. Microvilli help the small intestine to absorb nutrients.