Sabella spallanzanii mucus contain a galactose-binding lectin able to agglutinate bacteria. Purification and characterization

Lectins are present in almost all living organisms and are involved in several biological processes, including immune responses. In the present study, a calcium dependent galactose-binding lectin exhibiting an apparent MW of 43 kDa has been characterized and purified from the mucus of the polychaete Sabella spallanzanii by using both affinity chromatography and high-pressure liquid chromatographic methods. Its agglutinating activity towards rabbit erythrocytes was significantly modified by the addition of calcium or EDTA. The activity was optimal at temperature values comprised between 4 and 18 °C, maintain a 50% of activity between 20 and 37 °C, was significant deleted after exposure at 50…