*Protection: Cushions the plasma membrane and protects it from chemical injury
*Immunity to infection: Enables the immune system to recognize and selectively attack foreign organisms
*Defense against cancer: Changes in the glycocalyx of cancerous cells enable the immune system to recognize and destroy them.
*Transplant compatibility: Forms the basis for compatibility of blood transfusions, tissue grafts, and organ transplants
*Cell adhesion: Binds cells together so that tissues do not fall apart
*Inflammation regulation: Glycocalyx coating on endothelial walls in blood vessels prevents leukocytes from rolling/binding in healthy states.
*Fertilization: Enables sperm to recognize and bind to eggs
*Embryonic development: Guides embryonic cells to their destinations in the body