Introduction to mannan-binding lectin

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D C Kilpatrick1

  • 1Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service National Science Laboratory, Ellen's Glen Road, Edinburgh EH17 7QT, UK. dave.kilpatrick@snbts.csa.scot.nhs.uk

Biochemical Society Transactions
|July 31, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Mannan-binding lectin (MBL), a key innate immunity component, shows promise in replacement therapy for various diseases. Further trials with recombinant MBL are needed to confirm its physiological significance and therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is a collectin and C-type lectin synthesized by the liver.
  • It functions as an opsonin and plays a role in innate immunity, acting as an anti-antibody or disease modifier.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of MBL in innate immunity.
  • To investigate the potential of MBL replacement therapy for various disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Biochemical characterization of MBL.
  • Review of existing MBL replacement therapy data.

Main Results:

  • MBL influences diverse conditions including meningococcal disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis, and recurrent miscarriage.
  • MBL deficiency is most critical when secondary immune deficiencies are present.
  • Early MBL replacement therapy using plasma showed promising results.

Conclusions:

  • MBL is a significant glycoprotein in innate immunity.
  • MBL replacement therapy holds therapeutic promise.
  • Development of recombinant MBL is crucial for large-scale clinical trials to establish its physiological significance.

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