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Introduction to mannan-binding lectin
1Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service National Science Laboratory, Ellen's Glen Road, Edinburgh EH17 7QT, UK. dave.kilpatrick@snbts.csa.scot.nhs.uk
Abstract:
Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) was first discovered as a plasma opsonin for baker's yeast and was independently characterized biochemically. It belongs to the small subfamily of collectins: C-type lectins possessing a collagen-like domain. MBL is synthesized by the liver and secreted into the bloodstream. It is believed to be an important component of innate immunity, acting as an ante-antibody and/or as a disease modifier. It is thought to influence disorders as diverse as meningococcal disease, rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis and recurrent miscarriage. Lack of MBL may be most relevant in the context of a co-existing secondary immune deficiency. Replacement therapy, first carried out 30 years ago with unfractionated plasma, appears promising. The development of a recombinant product should permit the extension of MBL therapy to randomized clinical trials of sufficient size to provide clear evidence about the physiological significance of this intriguing glycoprotein.
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.