ISSN:
1573-2592
Keywords:
Galectin-3
;
ε binding protein
;
colon adenocarcinoma
;
autoimmunity
;
Mac-2
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Galectin-3 is aβ-galactoside-binding animal lectin formerly calledε binding protein, Mac-2, carbohydrate binding protein 35, CBH 30, L-29, or L34. The possible occurrence of autoantibodies to galectin-3 was investigated because cross-linking of galectins bound to IgE or FcεRI might produce mediator release from mast cells or basophils. Unexpectedly, a control serum from an individual free of current allergic symptoms was found to have a significantly elevated level of IgG anti-galectin-3 by ELISA employing galectin-3-coated wells incubated with test serum followed by HRPO-conjugated goat anti-human IgG; The reaction was not inhibitable by lactose, suggesting that it is not a result of binding of IgG by gaiectin-3 through lectin-carbohydrate interactions. The antibody activity was specifically adsorbed by galectin-3 and protein A-conjugated Sepharose and was associated primarily with subclass IgG1. The presence of the antibodies was confirmed by immunoblotting showing binding of IgG to the 30-kD galectin-3 band. The relevant epitopes were in the galectin-3N-terminal domain. The propositus was subsequently found to have adenocarcinoma of the colon, and titers of IgG anti-galectin-3 were found to be sharply elevated after hemicolectomy. Similar antibody titers have not been found in family members, but small numbers of normal persons and patients with malignant neoplasms have been found to have evidence of IgG anti-galectin-3 antibodies at lower titers than the propositus. The pathogenesis of this autoimmune reaction is unclear, though there is a trend for it to occur in older persons.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01541323
Permalink
