IDENTIFICATION OF 2 CARBOHYDRATE-SPECIFIC ERYTHROCYTE AGGLUTININS IN THE HEMOLYMPH OF THE PROTOCHORDATE BOTRYLLOIDES-LEACHII

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 42  (2) , 241-250
Abstract
The hemolymph of the colonial ascidian B. leachii contains 2 hemagglutinins which have been termed HA-1 and HA-2, respectively. The HA-1 agglutinin is specific for guinea pig erythrocytes, requires Ca2+ ions for its activity and has an apparent MW of about 200,000. It can be adsorbed by guinea pig but not human, sheep, mouse or pigeon erythrocytes. Guinea pig cell agglutination is reversibly inhibited by various mono- and oligosaccharides, lactose and D-galactose being among the most effective of those tested. The HA-2 agglutinin is smaller (MW .apprx. 63,000) and agglutinates a variety of erythrocyte types, including those from the human, guinea pig, mouse, sheep, pigeon and chicken. All cell agglutination is inhibited by lactose. Data from sugar inhibition and adsorption experiments indicate that the HA-2 agglutinins are homogeneous with respect to binding site specificity. Divalent cations are not required for activity. These agglutinins may be involved in the recognition and clearance of foreign particles in the homologous organism.