Specific Inhibition of Macrophage Migration Inhibition Factor by Fucosylated Glycolipid RM1

Abstract
The effects of glycolipids on the interaction of the MIF (migration inhibition factor) with rat macrophages were examined using a migration inhibition assay system. MIF activity was specifically blocked by fucosylated Glycolipid RM [Galα1-3Gal(2-lαFuc)β1-3GalNAcβ1-3Galβ1-4Glcβ1-1ceramide, (1978) J. Biochem. 83, 85–90], but not by Cytolipin R, hematoside, or blood group B active glycolipid [Galα1-3Gal(2-1αFuc)β1-4GlcNAcβ1-3Galβ1-4Glcβ1-1ceramide]. Inhibition of MIF activity was proportional to the concentration of Glycolipid RM. These findings suggest that Glycolipid RM acts as a receptor for MIF.