I-type lectins

[Catfish (Silurus asotus) lectin enhances the cytotoxic effects of doxorubicin]

Rhamnose-binding lectins are widely found in fish eggs. However, their biologic effects on cultured cells are still unknown. Since catfish (Silurus asotus) egg lectin (SAL) bound to globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) expressed on the surface of cells, we analyzed the relationship between Gb3 expression and SAL binding in tumor cell lines using Raji, Daudi, ACHN, P388, and K562 cells. Gb3 was highly expressed on Raji cells but not on K562 cells. SAL bound abundantly to Raji cells but not to K562 cells, and SAL binding depended on the amount of Gb3 on the cell surface. SAL caused a reduction in cell size and increased annexin-V binding to and propidium iodide (PI) incorporation into Raji cells. Although this effect on Raji cells might represent damage at the late apoptosis or necrosis stage, SAL-treated Raji cells remained alive. Thus SAL enhanced PI incorporation into Raji cells without induction of cell death. We examined whether the effects of chemotherapeutic agent(s) are influenced by SAL. SAL increased the incorporation of doxorubicin (Dox) into Raji cells and consequently enhanced the cytotoxic effects of Dox. These results indicate that SAL may induce cell permeability without cytotoxity.

Expression of CD33-related siglecs on human mononuclear phagocytes, monocyte-derived dendritic cells and plasmacytoid dendritic cells

Siglecs are sialic acid binding Ig-like lectins mostly expressed in the haemopoietic and immune systems. Amongst the 11 human siglecs, there are eight proteins highly related to CD33 which have biochemical features of inhibitory receptors, containing two conserved tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs. Five of these (CD33/siglec-3, -5, -7, -9 and -10) are expressed on circulating monocytes. Here we show that monocytes cultured to differentiate into macrophages using either GM-CSF or M-CSF retained expression of these siglecs and their levels were unaffected following stimulation with LPS. In comparison, monocyte-derived dendritic cells down-modulated siglec-7 and -9 following maturation with LPS. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells in human blood expressed siglec-5 only. On monocytes, siglec-5 was shown to mediate rapid uptake of anti-siglec-5 (Fab)2 fragments into early endosomes. This suggests, in addition to inhibitory signalling, a potential role in endocytosis for siglec-5 and the other CD33-related siglecs. Our results show that siglecs are differentially expressed on mononuclear phagocytes and dendritic cells and that some can be modulated by stimuli that promote maturation and differentiation.

Chemical biology of the sugar code

A high-density coding system is essential to allow cells to communicate efficiently and swiftly through complex surface interactions. All the structural requirements for forming a wide array of signals with a system of minimal size are met by oligomers of carbohydrates. These molecules surpass amino acids and nucleotides by far in information-storing capacity and serve as ligands in biorecognition processes for the transfer of information. The results of work aiming to reveal the intricate ways in which oligosaccharide determinants of cellular glycoconjugates interact with tissue lectins and thereby trigger multifarious cellular responses (e.g. in adhesion or growth regulation) are teaching amazing lessons about the range of finely tuned activities involved. The ability of enzymes to generate an enormous diversity of biochemical signals is matched by receptor proteins (lectins), which are equally elaborate. The multiformity of lectins ensures accurate signal decoding and transmission. The exquisite refinement of both sides of the protein-carbohydrate recognition system turns the structural complexity of glycans--a demanding but essentially mastered problem for analytical chemistry--into a biochemical virtue. The emerging medical importance of protein-carbohydrate recognition, for example in combating infection and the spread of tumors or in targeting drugs, also explains why this interaction system is no longer below industrial radarscopes. Our review sketches the concept of the sugar code, with a solid description of the historical background. We also place emphasis on a distinctive feature of the code, that is, the potential of a carbohydrate ligand to adopt various defined shapes, each with its own particular ligand properties (differential conformer selection). Proper consideration of the structure and shape of the ligand enables us to envision the chemical design of potent binding partners for a target (in lectin-mediated drug delivery) or ways to block lectins of medical importance (in infection, tumor spread, or inflammation).

Characteristics and primary structure of a galectin in the skin mucus of the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica

The characteristics and primary structure of AJL-1, one of the lectins in the skin mucus of the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), were examined. This lectin exhibited beta-galactoside specific activity in a Ca2+ independent manner. We previously reported that its molecular mass was 16,091Da, although it was approximately 30 kDa as determined by gel filtration, indicating that it is a homodimer having non-covalent bonds. This lectin was composed of 142 amino acid residues having no half-cystinyl residues, and showed homology to members of the galectin family, especially to proto-type galectins. Gene expression of this lectin was detected in skin only, and relative expression was high in an individual that exhibited resistance to infectious disease. AJL-1 showed agglutinating activity against pathogenic bacteria, Streptococcus difficile. This suggests that AJL-1 functions as an important defensive factor at the body surface.

Characterization of cDNAs encoding putative laccase-like multicopper oxidases and developmental expression in the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, and the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae

Laccase (EC 1.10.3.2) is an enzyme with p-diphenol oxidase activity that is a member of a group of proteins collectively known as multicopper, or blue copper, oxidases. Laccase is hypothesized to play an important role in insect cuticle sclerotization by oxidizing catechols in the cuticle to their corresponding quinones, which then catalyze protein cross-linking reactions. To facilitate studies of the structure, function and regulation of insect laccases, we have cloned two cDNAs for laccases from the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta (MsLac1 and 2), and one from the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae (AgLac1). The MsLac1 and 2 cDNAs encode proteins of 801 amino acids (aa) and 760 aa, respectively, while the AgLac1 cDNA encodes a protein of 1009 aa. All three cDNAs contain putative secretion signal sequences, and the 10 histidines and one cysteine that form the copper-binding centers, as well as a methionine in the T1 copper center. Novel to the insect laccases, relative to both fungal and plant laccases, is a longer amino-terminal sequence characterized by a unique domain consisting of several conserved cysteine, aromatic, and charged residues. Northern blot analyses identified single transcripts of approximately 3.6, 3.5, and 4.4 kb for MsLac1, MsLac2, and AgLac1, respectively, and also showed that AgLac1 was expressed in all life stages of the mosquito. RT-PCR revealed that the MsLac1 transcript was most abundant in the midgut, Malpighian tubules, and epidermis, whereas the MsLac2 transcript was most abundant in the epidermis. MsLac2 showed strong expression in the pharate pupal and reduced expression in the early pupal epidermis, consistent with the laccases' presumed role in cuticle sclerotization.

A Gene Encoding Sialic-Acid-Specific 9-O-Acetylesterase Found in Human Adult Testis

Using differential display RT-PCR, we identified a gene of 2750 bp from human adult testis, named H-Lse, which encoded a putative protein of 523 amino acids and molecular weight of 58 kd with structural characteristics similar to that of mouse lysosome sialic-acid-specific 9-O-acetylesterase. Northern blot analysis showed a widespread distribution of H-Lse in various human tissues with high expression in the testis, prostate, and colon. In situ hybridization results showed that while H-Lse was not detected in embryonic testis, positive signals were found in spermatocytes but not spermatogonia in adult testis of human. The subcellular localization of H-Lse was visualized by green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused to the amino terminus of H-Lse, showing compartmentalization of H-Lse in large dense-core vesicles, presumably lysosomes, in the cytoplasm. The developmentally regulated and spermatogenic stage-specific expression of H-Lse suggests its possible involvement in the development of the testis and/or differentiation of germ cells.

Molecular diversity of skin mucus lectins in fish

Among lectins in the skin mucus of fish, primary structures of four different types of lectin have been determined. Congerin from the conger eel Conger myriaster and AJL-1 from the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica were identified as galectin, characterized by its specific binding to beta-galactoside. Eel has additionally a unique lectin, AJL-2, which has a highly conserved sequence of C-type lectins but displays Ca(2+)-independent activity. This is rational because the lectin exerts its function on the cutaneous surface, which is exposed to a Ca(2+) scarce environment when the eel is in fresh water. The third type lectin is pufflectin, a mannose specific lectin in the skin mucus of pufferfish Takifugu rubripes. This lectin showed no sequence similarity with any known animal lectins but, surprisingly, shares sequence homology with mannose-binding lectins of monocotyledonous plants. The fourth lectin was found in the ponyfish Leiognathus nuchalis and exhibits homology with rhamnose-binding lectins known in eggs of some fish species. These lectins, except ponyfish lectin, showed agglutination of certain bacteria. In addition, pufflectin was found to bind to a parasitic trematode, Heterobothrium okamotoi. Taken together, these results demonstrate that skin mucus lectins in fish have wide molecular diversity.

CD22-directed monoclonal antibody therapy for lymphoma

Immunotherapy directed against the CD20 antigen has had a profound impact on the management of patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Antibody-based treatments offer a favorable side effect profile, as well as alternate mechanisms of action that may complement those of cytotoxic modalities. Targeting other antigens, such as CD22, may also result in antilymphoma effects. This B-cell-specific molecule is widely expressed in NHL and mediates important functions in B-cell biology. Preclinical and early clinical data suggest that epratuzumab, a humanized anti-CD22 monoclonal antibody, demonstrates antilymphoma effects in both unlabeled and radiolabeled forms, as well as a favorable safety profile. Ongoing and future studies will further determine the role of epratuzumab among the array of antilymphoma therapies, both as a single agent and in combination with other agents.

Lectins homologous to those of monocotyledonous plants in the skin mucus and intestine of pufferfish, Fugu rubripes

We have characterized pufflectin, a novel mannose-specific lectin, from the skin mucus of the pufferfish, Fugu rubripes. Molecular mass estimations by gel filtration and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and the SDS-PAGE pattern suggest that pufflectin is a homodimer composed of non-covalently associated subunits of 13 kDa. The full-length pufflectin cDNA consists of 527 bp, with 116 amino acid residues deduced from the open reading frame. The amino acid sequence of pufflectin shows no homology with any known animal lectin. Surprisingly, pufflectin shares sequence homology with mannose-binding lectins of monocotyledonous plants and has conserved two of three carbohydrate recognition domains of these plant lectins. The pufflectin gene is expressed in gills, oral cavity wall, esophagus, and skin. In addition, an isoform occurs exclusively in the intestine. Pufflectin differs from mannose-binding lectins purified from the blood plasma of Fugu. Whereas pufflectin did not agglutinate five bacterial species tested, it was demonstrated to bind to the parasitic trematode, Heterobothrium okamotoi. This finding suggests that pufflectin contributes to the parasite-defense system in Fugu.

Recent development in the design of sialyltransferase inhibitors

Sialylation at the non-reducing end of glycoconjugates is an important biological process in cellular recognitions, tumor metastases, and immune responses, which are mediated by a family of enzymes known as sialyltransferases. Inhibition of sialyltransferases may prove useful in elucidating the biological functions of sialylation and may have therapeutic applications. This review summarizes the recent development in this field with particular focus on the strategies used for the design of carbohydrate mimetics and the structure-activity relationships of substrate-based sialyltransferase inhibitors.

Distribution of sialoglycoconjugates in the rat cerebellum and its change with aging

We examined the distribution of sialoglycoconjugates in the cerebellum of 9-week-old and 30-month-old rats using light microscopy and electron microscopy in combination with two lectins, Maackia amurensis lectin (MAL) for Sia(alpha)2-3Gal and Sambucus sieboldiana agglutinin (SSA) for Sia(alpha)2-6Gal. Each lectin showed characteristic staining patterns. In young adult rats, MAL stained a strongly granular layer, a weakly molecular layer, and the medullary lamina, while SSA more strongly stained the medullary lamina than the molecular and granular layers. After aging, different staining patterns were obtained. Intense SSA reactivity was observed in the granular layer and intense MAL reactivity was observed in the medullary lamina of the aged groups. The reactivity of Purkinje cells with MAL was downregulated in the aged rats. These results indicated that Sia(alpha)2-3Gal and Sia(alpha)2-6Gal were expressed in distinct regions of the rat cerebellum and that their expression patterns changed in the aged brain.

Glycodelin: a major lipocalin protein of the reproductive axis with diverse actions in cell recognition and differentiation

Glycodelin is a glycoprotein that belongs to the lipocalin superfamily. Depending on glycosylation, glycodelin appears in various isoforms. In the uterus, glycodelin-A is the major progesterone-regulated glycoprotein secreted into uterine luminal cavity by secretory/decidualized endometrial glands. The other tissues expressing glycodelin include fallopian tubes, ovary, breast, seminal vesicle, bone marrow, and eccrine glands. Glycodelin-A potently and dose-dependently inhibits human sperm-egg binding, whereas differently glycosylated glycodelin-S from seminal plasma has no such effect. Absence of contraceptive glycodelin-A in the uterus during periovulatory midcycle is consistent with an open "fertile window." Glycodelin induced by local or systemic administration of progestogens may potentially reduce the fertilizing capacity of sperm in any phase of the menstrual cycle. Glycodelin also has immunosuppressive activity. Its high concentration at the fetomaternal interface may contribute to protection of the embryonic semiallograft. Besides being an epithelial differentiation marker, glycodelin appears to play a role in glandular morphogenesis, as transfection of glycodelin cDNA into a glycodelin-negative breast cancer cells resulted in formation of gland-like structures, restricted proliferation, and induction of other epithelial markers. These various properties, as well as the chemistry, biology, and clinical aspects of glycodelin, continue to be areas of active investigation reviewed in this communication.

Primary structure and characteristics of a lectin from skin mucus of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica

Two types of lactose-binding lectins, AJL-1 and AJL-2, were purified from the skin mucus extract of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica by lactose affinity chromatography and subsequent gel filtration. The molecular masses of AJL-1 and AJL-2 were 16,091 and 31,743 Da, respectively. Intact AJL-1 was comprised of two identical 16-kDa subunits having blocked N termini and no disulfide bonds. AJL-2 was a homodimer with disulfide bonds. Based on the N-terminal amino acid sequence of the AJL-2 monomer, the nucleotide sequence of cDNA encoding this lectin was determined by 3'- and 5'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The deduced amino acid sequence showed approximately 30% homology with C-type lectins, which bind to carbohydrates in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner. In addition, AJL-2 exhibited highly conserved consensus amino acid residues of the C-type carbohydrate recognition domain, although this lectin showed Ca(2+)-independent activity. Gene expression of AJL-2 was detected only in the skin by Northern blot analysis, and this lectin localization was demonstrated in the club cells by immunohistochemistry. These results indicate that AJL-2 is secreted on the body surface and function as a component of skin mucus. AJL-2 agglutinated Escherichia coli and suppressed its growth, suggesting that this lectin is involved in host defense.

Role of protein kinase C in the phosphorylation of CD33 (Siglec-3) and its effect on lectin activity

CD33 (Siglec-3) is a marker of myeloid progenitor cells, mature myeloid cells, and most myeloid leukemias. Although its biologic role remains unknown, it has been demonstrated to function as a sialic acid-specific lectin and a cell adhesion molecule. Many of the Siglecs (including CD33) have been reported to be tyrosine phosphorylated in the cytosolic tails under specific stimulation conditions. Here we report that CD33 is also a serine/threonine phosphoprotein, containing at least 2 sites of serine phosphorylation in its cytoplasmic domain, catalyzed by protein kinase C (PKC). Phosphorylation could be augmented by exposure to the protein kinase-activating cytokines interleukin 3, erythropoietin, or granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, in a cytokine-dependent cell line, TF-1. The CD33 cytoplasmic tail was phosphorylated by PKC in vitro, in a Ca(++)/lipid-dependent manner. CHOK1 cells stably expressing CD33 with cytoplasmic tails of various length also showed phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-dependent phosphorylation of CD33. Inhibition of CD33 phosphorylation with pharmacologic agents resulted in an increase of sialic acid-dependent rosette formation. Furthermore, the occupancy of the lectin site affected its basal level of phosphorylation. Rosette formation by COS cells expressing a form of CD33 lacking its cytoplasmic domain was not affected by these same agents. These data indicate that CD33 is a phosphoprotein, that its phosphorylation may be controlled by PKC downstream of cytokine stimulation, and that its phosphorylation is cross-regulated with its lectin activity. Notably, although this is the first example of serine/threonine phosphorylation in the subfamily of CD33-like Siglecs, some of the other members also have putative target sites in their cytoplasmic tails.

Acquisition of potential N-glycosylation sites in the immunoglobulin variable region by somatic mutation is a distinctive feature of follicular lymphoma

Most patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) have somatically mutated V genes with intraclonal variation, consistent with location in the germinal center site. Using our own and published sequences, we have investigated the frequency of potential N-glycosylation sites introduced into functional V(H) genes as a consequence of somatic mutation. FL cells were compared with normal memory B cells or plasma cells matched for similar levels of mutation. Strikingly, novel sites were detected in 55 of 70 (79%) patients with FL, compared to 7 of 75 (9%) in the normal B-cell population (P <.001). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLCL) showed an intermediate frequency (13 of 32 [41%] patients). Myeloma and the mutated subset of chronic lymphocytic leukemia showed frequencies similar to those of normal cells in 5 of 64 (8%) patients and 5 of 40 (13%) patients, respectively. In 3 of 3 random patients with FL, immunoglobulin was expressed as recombinant single-chain Fv in Pichia pastoris, and glycosylation was demonstrated. These findings indicate that N-glycosylation of the variable region may be common in FL and in a subset of DLCL. Most novel sites are located in the complementarity-determining regions. V(H) sequences of nonfunctional V(H) genes contained few sites, arguing for positive selection in FL. One possibility is that the added carbohydrate in the variable region contributes to interaction with elements in the germinal center environment. This common feature of FL may be critical for tumor behavior.

Location of sialoglycoconjugates containing the Sia(alpha)2-3Gal and Sia(alpha)2-6Gal groups in the rat hippocampus and the effect of aging on their expression

The histochemical distribution of sialoglycoconjugates in the CA1 region in the hippocampus formation of 9-week-old rats and 30-month-old rats was examined using electron microscopy in combination with two lectins, Maackia amurensis lectin, specific for Sia(alpha)2-3Gal, and Sambucus sieboldiana agglutinin, specific for Sia(alpha)2-6Gal. Each lectin stained the plasma membranes of pyramidal cells, indicating that the Sia(alpha)2-3Gal and Sia(alpha)2-6Gal groups were expressed on their plasma membranes. These lectins also bound to synapses in the stratum lacunosum molecular. The staining intensity of the lectins in the synapses in these layers was downregulated in the 30-month-old rats. These results indicated that both the Sia(alpha)2-3Gal and Sia(alpha)2-6Gal groups are expressed on these synapses and that the expression of these sialyl linkages decreases in the aged brain

Siglecs, sialic acids and innate immunity

Siglecs are members of the Ig superfamily that bind to sialic acid (Sia) and are mainly expressed by cells of the hematopoietic system. Until three years ago, only four Siglecs were known, namely sialoadhesin, CD22, myelin-associated glycoprotein and CD33. Since then, a further six human CD33-related Siglecs with features of inhibitory receptors have been identified and shown to be expressed by discrete subsets of leukocytes. Recognition of Sia by these Siglecs could play a role in the regulation of the innate immune system.

N-glycolylneuraminic acid deficiency in humans

Classic studies suggested that the common mammalian sialic acid N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) is an oncofetal antigen in humans, being immunogenic in adult humans and yet apparently expressed in human fetuses and tumors. We and others have recently found that the human deficiency of Neu5Gc can be explained by an inactivating mutation in the gene encoding CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase. Thus, Neu5Gc is not an oncofetal antigen in the classical sense, and other explanations must be found for the observed expression pattern. This review provides an update on this matter, and considers a variety of other old and new questions that arise from it.

Identification and characterization of S2V, a novel putative siglec that contains two V set Ig-like domains and recruits protein-tyrosine phosphatases SHPs

We describe the molecular cloning and characterization of S2V, a novel sialic acid binding immunoglobulin-like lectin. The cDNA of S2V encodes a type 1 transmembrane protein with four extracellular immunoglobulin-like (Ig-like) domains and a cytoplasmic tail bearing a typical immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM) and an ITIM-like motif. A unique feature of S2V is the presence of two V-set Ig-like domains responsible for the binding to sialic acid, whereas all other known siglecs possess only one. S2V is predominantly expressed in macrophage. In vivo S2V was tyrosine-phosphorylated when co-expressed with exogenous c-Src kinase. Upon tyrosine phosphorylation, S2V recruits both Src homology 2 (SH2) domain-containing protein-tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 and SHP-2, two important inhibitory regulators of immunoreceptor signal transduction. These findings suggest that S2V is involved in the negative regulation of the signaling in macrophage by functioning as an inhibitory receptor. When expressed in COS-7 cells, S2V was able to mediate sialic acid-dependent binding to human red blood cells, suggesting that S2V may function through cell-cell interaction.

A novel rhamnose-binding lectin family from eggs of steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with different structures and tissue distribution

An L-rhamnose-binding isolectin named STL3 (subunit Mr, 21.5 k) was isolated from eggs of the steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in addition to STL1 (subunit Mr, 31.4 k) and STL2 (subunit Mr, 21.3 k) that had been already isolated. STLs were composed of noncovalently linked subunits. The primary structures of STL1 and STL3 were analyzed by the combined use of protein sequencing and cDNA sequencing. A cDNA encoding STL2, of which the protein sequence had been previously studied, was also analyzed. The STL1 subunit (289 amino acid residues) had different structural properties compared to those of the STL2 subunit (195 amino acid residues) and the STL3 subunit (195 amino acid residues); e.g., the number of repeated domain (three for STL1, and two for STL2 and STL3), although all of them were composed of tandemly repeated homologous domains (40 to 53% identities). The lectin levels in various tissues and during the embryonic development showed that STL1 had different distribution and expression profiles from those of STL2 and STL3. Although STL1 could be detected in several tissues and serum of both male and female steelhead trout, STL2 and STL3 were only abundant in the ovary. STL2 and STL3 levels dramatically decreased just after hatching, however, the STL1 level increased temporarily. These results indicate that the multiple lectins from eggs of the steelhead trout form a novel rhamnose-binding lectin family with different structures and tissue distribution to share distinct functions in eggs.

The crystal structure of a novel mammalian lectin, Ym1, suggests a saccharide binding site

Ym1, a secretory protein synthesized by activated murine peritoneal macrophages, is a novel mammalian lectin with a binding specificity to GlcN. Lectins are responsible for carbohydrate recognition and for mediating cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions in microbes, plants, and animals. Glycosaminoglycan heparin/heparan sulfate binding ability was also detected in Ym1. We report here the three-dimensional structure of Ym1 at 2.5-A resolution by x-ray crystallography. The crystal structure of Ym1 consists of two globular domains, a beta/alpha triose-phosphate isomerase barrel domain and a small alpha + beta folding domain. A notable electron density of sugar is detected in the Ym1 crystal structure. The saccharide is located inside the triose-phosphate isomerase domain at the COOH terminal end of the beta-strands. Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions are noted in the sugar-binding site in Ym1. Despite the fact that Ym1 is not a chitinase, structurally, Ym1 shares significant homology with chitinase A of Serratia marcescens. Ym1 and chitinase A have a similar carbohydrate binding cleft. This study provides new structure information, which will lead to better understanding of the biological significance of Ym1 and its putative gene members.

The effect of alpha2,6-linked sialic acid on anti-IgM antibody-induced apoptosis in Ramos cells

Apoptosis in B cells is induced through the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) and affects the sialic acid recognition molecules on B cells. We investigated the effects of alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein (AGP), which mainly contains alpha2,6-linked sialic acid, on anti-IgM antibody (Ab)-induced apoptosis in Ramos cells, which are derived from Burkitt's lymphoma. When Ramos cells were incubated with anti-IgM-Ab in plates coated with AGP, neuraminidase-digested AGP (asAGP) or alpha2,3-sialylated AGP (2,3AGP), apoptosis was suppressed only in those coated with AGP. We also studied the effects of CD22, which is expressed on the surface of mature B cells and binds to sugar chains containing alpha2,6-linked sialic acid, with anti-CD22 monoclonal antibody (mAb). Anti-CD22mAb enhanced anti-IgM Ab-induced apoptosis in Ramos cells. These contradictory results suggested that the recognition molecules for alpha2,6-linked sialic acid on AGP, which inhibits B-cell apoptosis, is distinct from CD22, or that different binding domains of CD22 between alpha2,6-linked sialic acid and anti-CD22 mAb exert opposite functions of suppression or enhancement to anti-IgM Ab-induced B cells.

Towards defining the role of glycans as hardware in information storage and transfer: basic principles, experimental approaches and recent progress

The term 'code' in biological information transfer appears to be tightly and hitherto exclusively connected with the genetic code based on nucleotides and translated into functional activities via proteins. However, the recent appreciation of the enormous coding capacity of oligosaccharide chains of natural glycoconjugates has spurred to give heed to a new concept: versatile glycan assembly by the genetically encoded glycosyltransferases endows cells with a probably not yet fully catalogued array of meaningful messages. Enciphered by sugar receptors such as endogenous lectins the information of code words established by a series of covalently linked monosaccharides as letters for example guides correct intra- and intercellular routing of glycoproteins, modulates cell proliferation or migration and mediates cell adhesion. Evidently, the elucidation of the structural frameworks and the recognition strategies within the operation of the sugar code poses a fascinating conundrum. The far-reaching impact of this recognition mode on the level of cells, tissues and organs has fueled vigorous investigations to probe the subtleties of protein-carbohydrate interactions. This review presents information on the necessarily concerted approach using X-ray crystallography, molecular modeling, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, thermodynamic analysis and engineered ligands and receptors. This part of the treatise is flanked by exemplarily chosen insights made possible by these techniques.

mSiglec-E, a novel mouse CD33-related siglec (sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin) that recruits Src homology 2 (SH2)-domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 and SHP-2

The sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins (siglecs) represent a recently defined distinct subset of the immunoglobulin superfamily. By using the Src homology 2 (SH2)-domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 as bait in a yeast two-hybrid screen, we have identified a new member of the mouse siglec family, mSiglec-E. The mSiglec-E cDNA encodes a protein of 467 amino acids that contains three extracellular immunoglobulin-like domains, a transmembrane region and a cytoplasmic tail bearing two immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs). mSiglec-E is highly expressed in mouse spleen, a tissue rich in leucocytes. The ITIMs of mSiglec-E can recruit SHP-1 and SHP-2, two inhibitory regulators of immunoreceptor signal transduction. This suggests that the function of mSiglec-E is probably an involvement in haematopoietic cells and the immune system as an inhibitory receptor. When expressed in COS-7 cells, mSiglec-E was able to mediate sialic acid-dependent binding to human red blood cells, suggesting that mSiglec-E may function through cell-cell interactions. In comparison with the known members of the siglec family, mSiglec-E exhibits a high degree of sequence similarity to both human siglec-7 and siglec-9. The gene encoding mSiglec-E is localized in the same chromosome as that encoding mouse CD33. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that neither mouse mSiglec-E nor CD33 shows a clear relationship with any human siglecs so far identified.

Glycohistochemistry: the why and how of detection and localization of endogenous lectins

The central dogma of molecular biology limits the downstream flow of genetic information to proteins. Progress from the last two decades of research on cellular glycoconjugates justifies adding the enzymatic production of glycan antennae with information-bearing determinants to this famous and basic pathway. An impressive variety of regulatory processes including cell growth and apoptosis, folding and routing of glycoproteins and cell adhesion/migration have been unravelled and found to be mediated or modulated by specific protein (lectin)-carbohydrate interactions. The conclusion has emerged that it would have meant missing manifold opportunities not to recruit the sugar code to cellular information transfer. Currently, the potential for medical applications in anti-adhesion therapy or drug targeting is one of the major driving forces fuelling progress in glycosciences. In histochemistry, this concept has prompted the introduction of carrier-immobilized carbohydrate ligands (neoglycoconjugates) to visualize the cells' capacity to be engaged in oligosaccharide recognition. After their isolation these tissue lectins will be tested for ligand analysis. Since fine specificities of different lectins can differ despite identical monosaccharide binding, the tissue lectins will eventually replace plant agglutinins to move from glycan profiling and localization to functional considerations. Namely, these two marker types, i.e. neoglycoconjugates and tissue lectins, track down accessible binding sites with relevance for involvement in interactions in situ. The documented interplay of synthetic organic chemistry and biochemistry with cyto- and histochemistry nourishes the optimism that the application of this set of innovative custom-prepared tools will provide important insights into the ways in which glycans can act as hardware in transmitting information during normal tissue development and pathological situations.

Loss of N-glycolylneuraminic acid in humans: Mechanisms, consequences, and implications for hominid evolution

The surface of all mammalian cells is covered with a dense and complex array of sugar chains, which are frequently terminated by members of a family of molecules called sialic acids. One particular sialic acid called N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) is widely expressed on most mammalian tissues, but is not easily detectable on human cells. In fact, it provokes an immune response in adult humans. The human deficiency of Neu5Gc is explained by an inactivating mutation in the gene encoding CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in generating Neu5Gc in cells of other mammals. This deficiency also results in an excess of the precursor sialic acid N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) in humans. This mutation appears universal to modern humans, occurred sometime after our last common ancestor with the great apes, and happens to be one of the first known human-great ape genetic differences with an obvious biochemical readout. While the original selection mechanisms and major biological consequences of this human-specific mutation remain uncertain, several interesting clues are currently being pursued. First, there is evidence that the human condition can explain differences in susceptibility or resistance to certain microbial pathogens. Second, the functions of some endogenous receptors for sialic acids in the immune system may be altered by this difference. Third, despite the lack of any obvious alternate pathway for synthesis, Neu5Gc has been reported in human tumors and possibly in human fetal tissues, and traces have even been detected in normal human tissues. One possible explanation is that this represents accumulation of Neu5Gc from dietary sources of animal origin. Finally, a markedly reduced expression of hydroxylase in the brains of other mammals raises the possibility that the human-specific mutation of this enzyme could have played a role in human brain evolution.

Animal lectins as cell adhesion molecules

Protein-carbohydrate interaction is exploited in cell adhesion mechanisms besides the recognition of peptide motifs. The sugar code thus significantly contributes to the intriguing specificity of cellular selection of binding partners. Focusing on two classes of lectins (selectins and galectins), it is evident that their functionality for mediation of adhesive contacts is becoming increasingly appreciated, as is the integration of this type of interaction with other recognition modes to yield the noted specificity. The initial contact formation between leukocytes and activated endothelium makes use of selectins to guide lymphocyte trafficking. In addition to the three selectins which bind a distinct array of ligands, galectin-1 and galectin-3 and possibly other members of this family are involved in cell-cell or cell-matrix interactions. This review summarizes structural and functional aspects of these two classes of endogenous lectins relevant for cell adhesion.

The sialyl-alpha2,6-lactosaminyl-structure: biosynthesis and functional role

Sialylation represents one of the most frequently occurring terminations of the oligosaccharide chains of glycoproteins and glycolipids. Sialic acid is commonly found alpha2,3- or alpha2,6-linked to galactose (Gal), alpha2,6-linked to N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) or alpha2,8-linked to another sialic acid. The biosynthesis of the various linkages is mediated by the different members of the sialyltransferase family. The addition of sialic acid in alpha2,6-linkage to the galactose residue of lactosamine (type 2 chains) is catalyzed by beta-galactoside alpha2,6-sialyltransferase (ST6Gal.I). Although expressed by a single gene, this enzyme shows a complex pattern of regulation which allows its tissue- and stage-specific modulation. The cognate oligosaccharide structure, NeuAcalpha2,6Galbeta1,4GlcNAc, is widely distributed among tissues and is involved in biological processes such as the regulation of the immune response and the progression of colon cancer. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the biochemistry of ST6Gal.I and on the functional role of the sialyl-alpha2,6-lactosaminyl structure.

Post-translational modification of the myxoma-virus anti-inflammatory serpin SERP-1 by a virally encoded sialyltransferase

SERP-1 is a secreted serpin (serine-proteinase inhibitor) encoded by myxoma virus, a poxvirus pathogen of rabbits. SERP-1 is required for myxoma-virus virulence, and the purified protein has been shown to possess independent anti-inflammatory activity in animal models of restenosis and antigen-induced arthritis. As an inhibitor of serine proteinases, SERP-1 acts against tissue-type plasminogen activator, urokinase-type plasminogen activator, plasmin, thrombin and Factor Xa. In the present study, examination of SERP-1 glycosylation-site mutants showed that the N-linked glycosylation of Asn(172) was essential for SERP-1 secretion, whereas mutation of Asn(99) decreased secretion efficiency, indicating that N-linked glycosylation plays an essential role in the processing and trafficking of SERP-1. Furthermore, comparison of SERP-1 from wild-type myxoma virus and a virus containing a targeted disruption of the MST3N sialyltransferase locus demonstrated that SERP-1 is specifically modified by this myxoma-virus-encoded sialyltransferase, and is thus the first reported viral protein shown to by modified by a virally encoded glycosyltransferase. Sialylation of SERP-1 by the MST3N gene product creates a uniquely charged species of secreted SERP-1 that is distinct from SERP-1 produced from other eukaryotic expression systems, though this has no apparent effect upon the kinetics of in vitro proteinase inhibition. Rather, the role of viral sialylation of SERP-1 likely relates to masking antigenicity or targeting SERP-1 to specific sites of action in vivo.

Siglec-7: a sialic acid-binding lectin of the immunoglobulin superfamily

The Siglecs are a recently discovered family of sialic acid-binding lectins of the immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily. We report a molecule showing homology to the six first reported Siglecs, with the closest relationship to Siglec-3(CD33), Siglec-5, and Siglec-6(OBBP-1). The extracellular portion has two Ig-like domains, with the amino-terminal V-set Ig domain including amino acid residues known to be involved in sialic acid recognition by other Siglecs. The cytoplasmic domain has putative sites of tyrosine phosphorylation shared with some Siglecs, including an Immuno-receptor Tyrosine-based Inhibitory Motif (ITIM). Expression of the full-length cDNA induces sialic acid-dependent binding to human erythrocytes. A recombinant chimeric form containing the extracellular Ig domains selectively recognizes the sequence Neu5Acalpha2-6Galbeta1-4Glc, and binding requires the side chain of sialic acid. Mutation of an arginine residue predicted to be critical for sialic acid binding abolishes both interactions. Taken together, our findings justify designation of the molecule as Siglec-7. Analysis of bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones spanning the known human genomic location of Siglec-3 indicates that the Siglec-7 gene is also located on chromosome 19q13.3-13.4. Human tissues show strong expression of Siglec-7 mRNA in spleen, peripheral blood leukocytes, and liver. The combination of an extracellular sialic acid binding site and an intracellular ITIM motif suggests that this molecule is involved in trans-membrane regulatory signaling reactions.

New aspects of siglec binding specificities, including the significance of fucosylation and of the sialyl-Tn epitope. Sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin superfamily lectins

The siglecs (sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin superfamily lectins) are immunoglobulin superfamily members recognizing sialylated ligands. Most prior studies of siglec specificities focused on alpha2-3- and alpha2-6-sialyllactos(amin)es and on one or two of the siglecs at a time. Here, we explore several new aspects of specificities of the first six reported siglecs, using sialylated glycans presented in multivalent form, on synthetic polyacrylamide backbones, or on mucin polypeptides. First, we report that binding of siglec-1 (sialoadhesin), siglec-3 (CD33), siglec-4a (myelin-associated glycoprotein), and siglec-5 to alpha2-3 sialyllactosamine is affected markedly by the presence of an alpha1-3-linked fucose. Thus, while siglecs may not interfere with selectin-mediated recognition, fucosylation could negatively regulate siglec binding. Second, in contrast to earlier studies, we find that siglec-3 prefers alpha2-6-sialyllactose. Third, siglec-5 binds alpha2-8-linked sialic acid, making it the siglec least specific for linkage recognition. Fourth, siglecs-2 (CD22), -3, -5, and -6 (obesity-binding protein 1) showed significant binding to sialyl-Tn (Neu5Acalpha2-6-GalNAc), a tumor marker associated with poor prognosis. Fifth, siglec-6 is an exception among siglecs in not requiring the glycerol side chain of sialic acid for recognition. Sixth, all siglecs require the carboxyl group of sialic acid for binding. Finally, the presentation of the sialyl-Tn epitope and/or more extended structures that include this motif may be important for optimal recognition by the siglecs. This was concluded from studies using ovine, bovine, and porcine submaxillary mucins and Chinese hamster ovary cells transfected with ST6GalNAc-I and/or the mucin polypeptide MUC1.

Loss of N-glycolylneuraminic acid in human evolution. Implications for sialic acid recognition by siglecs

The common sialic acids of mammalian cells are N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) and N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc). Humans are an exception, because of a mutation in CMP-sialic acid hydroxylase, which occurred after our common ancestor with great apes. We asked if the resulting loss of Neu5Gc and increase in Neu5Ac in humans alters the biology of the siglecs, which are Ig superfamily members that recognize sialic acids. Human siglec-1 (sialoadhesin) strongly prefers Neu5Ac over Neu5Gc. Thus, humans have a higher density of siglec-1 ligands than great apes. Siglec-1-positive macrophages in humans are found primarily in the perifollicular zone, whereas in chimpanzees they also occur in the marginal zone and surrounding the periarteriolar lymphocyte sheaths. Although only a subset of chimpanzee macrophages express siglec-1, most human macrophages are positive. A known evolutionary difference is the strong preference of mouse siglec-2 (CD22) for Neu5Gc, contrasting with human siglec-2, which binds Neu5Ac equally well. To ask when the preference for Neu5Gc was adjusted in the human lineage, we cloned the first three extracellular domains of siglec-2 from all of the great apes and examined their preference. In fact, siglec-2 had evolved a higher degree of recognition flexibility before Neu5Gc was lost in humans. Human siglec-3 (CD33) and siglec-6 (obesity-binding protein 1) also recognize both Neu5Ac and Neu5Gc, and siglec-5 may have some preference for Neu5Gc. Others showed that siglec-4a (myelin-associated glycoprotein) prefers Neu5Ac over Neu5Gc. Thus, the human loss of Neu5Gc may alter biological processes involving siglec-1, and possibly, siglec-4a or -5.

Visualization of carbohydrate-binding molecules expressed by myelomono- and erythropoietic cells derived from human bone marrow: an immunoenzymatic double-staining study

Interactions between human haematopoietic and bone marrow stromal cells are governed by complex carbohydrate-mediated adhesion processes. In order to evaluate corresponding carbohydrate-binding sites on human myelo- and erythropoietic cells which were able to react with mono- or oligosaccharides, we established an immunocytochemical double-staining assay. In a first step, cell lineages were visualized using Lewis(x) (CD15) or glycophorin C-specific monoclonal antibodies. The second step included polyacrylamide-conjugated carbohydrate structures. According to our results, the carbohydrate-binding potential of granulopoietic cells increased during the process of maturation, contrasting a reduction of carbohydrate-binding sites on erythroid precursor cells during differentiation. With respect to previous in vitro studies, these findings shed some light on certain aspects of bone marrow homing as well as on the trafficking of mature cellular elements into circulation. It is tempting to speculate that carbohydrate-mediated adhesion mechanisms may be involved in the various functional defects of progenitor cells in chronic myelogenic leukaemia, especially regarding their complex interactions with the marrow microenvironment.

The 2.15 A crystal structure of CG-16, the developmentally regulated homodimeric chicken galectin

Differential developmental regulation of expression, fine-specificity differences in ligand recognition and disparate capacity for homodimerization are characteristics of the two currently known proto-type chicken galectins. The X-ray crystal structure of the first avian galectin, the homodimeric agglutinin from chicken liver (CG-16), has been solved in the absence of ligand in two crystal forms. Although the arrangement of lectin dimers in the two crystals is different, the structure of the monomers and their association into the extended beta-sandwich that characterises the dimer are virtually identical. The fold establishes a beta-sandwich motif composed of a five-stranded and a six-stranded beta-sheet evocative of proto-type mammalian galectins. The carbohydrate-binding site is occupied by six water molecules that take the place of the sugar in the complex. They help to stabilise in the absence of the ligand the spatial arrangement of the amino acid side-chains involved in sugar recognition. Docking of N-acetyllactosamine into the binding site reveals that three of these water molecules, which are in direct contact with the protein, occupy positions equivalent to the key sugar hydroxyl groups, namely the hydroxyls at positions 4 and 6 of the galactose unit and at position 3 of the N-acetylglucosamine unit. Crystallographic data are fully consistent with the binding features in solution previously derived from chemical mapping with deoxy, fluoro and O-methyl derivatives and laser photo-CIDNP (chemically induced dynamic nuclear polarisation) studies. The possible molecular basis for the monomeric character of the chicken intestinal galectin as well as potential mechanisms of oxidative inactivation by disulphide bridging are evaluated on the basis of the given structural information concerning the CG-16 dimer interface and the cysteine residues, respectively.

Cryptic sialic acid binding lectins on human blood leukocytes can be unmasked by sialidase treatment or cellular activation

We recently reported that the sialic acid-specific binding sites of CD22 molecules on B cells are masked by endogenous ligands, and can be unmasked by sialidase treatment or cellular activation. Here, we show that many other human blood leukocyte types have endogenous sialic acid binding sites that can be unmasked by sialidase treatment. Truncation of sialic acid side chains on the soluble probes used for detection abolishes all binding, indicating the specificity of the interaction for the details of sialic acid structure. There is limited overlap between alpha2-6- and alpha2-3-sialic acid-specific binding sites, which are unmasked on monocytes, natural killer cells, a minority of mature T cells, neutrophils, and some cultured human leukemic cell lines. Activation with phorbol ester and calcium ionophore causes spontaneous exposure of some of the binding sites, occurring over a period of minutes on neutrophils and several hours on monocytes and U937 leukemia cells. Activation is accompanied by some evidence for desialylation of cell surface molecules. Thus, many human blood cells have specific binding sites for sialic acids, masked by endogenous sialylated ligands. Cellular activation can unmask these sites, possibly by the action of an endogenous sialidase. The nearly universal masking of such sites in unactivated blood cells could explain why many of these sialic acid-binding lectins have not been previously discovered. Similar considerations may apply to sialic acid binding lectins of other cell types and tissues.

A novel gene, MALT1 at 18q21, is involved in t(11;18) (q21;q21) found in low-grade B-cell lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue

The t(11;18) (q21;q21) translocation is a characteristic chromosomal aberration in low-grade B-cell lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) type. We previously identified a YAC clone y789F3, which includes the breakpoint at 18q21 in a MALT lymphoma patient. BAC and PAC contigs were constructed on the YAC, and BAC 193f9 was found to encompass the breakpoint region. In the present study, we further narrowed down the breakpoint region at 18q21 in five MALT lymphoma patients by means of FISH and Southern blot analyses using the plasmid contig constructed from BAC 193f9. The breakpoints at 18q21 in three of the five MALT lymphoma patients were found to be clustered approximately within the 20 kb region. By using exon amplification and cDNA library screening, we identified a novel cDNA spanning the breakpoint region that exhibited aberrant mRNA signals in four of the five MALT lymphoma patients. The nucleotide sequence predicted an 813 amino acid protein that shows significant sequence similarity to the CD22beta and laminin 5 alpha3b subunit. We refer to the gene encoding this transcript as MALT1 (Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue lymphoma translocation gene 1). The alteration of MALT1 by translocation strongly suggests that this gene plays an important role in the pathogenesis of MALT lymphoma.

Total synthesis of a cholinergic neuron-specific ganglioside GT1a alpha: a high affinity ligand for myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG)

An efficient total synthesis of a cholinergic neuron-specific ganglioside GT1a alpha (IV3NeuAcIII6NeuAcII3NeuAc-GgOse4Cer) is described. The suitably protected sialyl-alpha(2-->6)-gangliotriose (III6NeuAc-GgOse3) derivative was glycosylated with the phenyl 2-thioglycoside of sialic acid in the presence of N-iodosuccinimide (NIS) and trimethylsilyl trifluoromethane-sulfonate (TMSOTf) in acetonitrile medium, giving the disialogangliotriose (III6NeuAcII3NeuAc-GgOse3) derivative which contains both sialyl-alpha(2-->6)-GalNAc and sialyl-alpha(2-->3)-Gal structures (Route I). This pentasaccharide was efficiently synthesized also by the coupling of (methyl 5-acetamido-4,7,8,9-tetra-O-acetyl-3,5-dideoxy-D-glycero-alpha-D-galacto -2-nonulopyranosylonate)-(2-->6)-2-deoxy-3,4-O-isopropylidene-2-ph thalimido-D-galactopyranosyl trichloroacetimidate with 2-(trimethylsilyl)ethyl (methyl 5-acetamido-4,7,8,9-tetra-O-acetyl-3,5-dideoxy-D-glycero-alpha-D-galacto -2-nonulopyranosylonate)-(2-->3)-(2,6-di-O-benzyl-beta-D-galactopy ranosyl)-(1-->4)-2,3,6-tri-O-benzyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside, followed by conversion of the phthalimido group to the acetamido group (Route II). O-Deisopropylidenation and further glycosylation with methyl (methyl 5-acetamido-4,7,8,9-tetra-O-acetyl-3,5-dideoxy-D-glycero-alpha-D-gala ct-2-nonulopyranosylonate)-(2-->3)-2,4,6-tri-O-benzoyl-1-thio-b eta-D-galactopyranoside, promoted by dimethyl(methylthio)sulfonium triflate (DMTST), gave the desired trisialogangliotetraose (IV3NeuAcIII6NeuAcII3NeuAc-GgOse4) derivative, which was converted stepwise into the title ganglioside GT1a alpha by the introduction of the ceramide part and then complete deprotection. The ganglioside obtained was shown to be identical with the native GT1a alpha on TLC-immunostaining.

New animal lectin structures

The past year has provided the X-ray crystal structures of both the N-terminal domain of sialoadhesin and the extracytoplasmic domain of the cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor. These structures represent the first examples from the I- and P-type lectin families and provide important insights into how these transmembrane-spanning receptors function. In addition, structures of galectin-7 and of the carbohydrate-recognition domain of galectin-3 have given evidence of a new galectin quaternary structure. Finally, the structure of tachylectin-2, the first example of a fivefold symmetric beta-propeller protein, sheds light on the role played by this lectin in horseshoe crab host defense.

Lysosomal and cytosolic sialic acid 9-O-acetylesterase activities can Be encoded by one gene via differential usage of a signal peptide-encoding exon at the N terminus

9-O-Acetylation is one of the most common modifications of sialic acids, and it can affect several sialic acid-mediated recognition phenomena. We previously reported a cDNA encoding a lysosomal sialic acid-specific 9-O-acetylesterase, which traverses the endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi pathway and localizes primarily to lysosomes and endosomes. In this study, we report a variant cDNA derived from the same gene that contains a different 5' region. This cDNA has a putative open reading frame lacking a signal peptide-encoding sequence and is thus a candidate for the previously described cytosolic sialic acid 9-O-acetylesterase activity. Epitope-tagged constructs confirm that the new sequence causes the protein product to be targeted to the cytosol and has esterase activity. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction to distinguish the two forms of message, we show that although the lysosomal sialic acid-specific 9-O-acetylesterase message has a widespread pattern of expression in adult mouse tissues, this cytosolic sialic acid 9-O-acetylesterase form has a rather restricted distribution, with the strongest expression in the liver, ovary, and brain. Using a polyclonal antibody directed against the 69-amino acid region common to both proteins, we confirmed that the expression of glycosylated and nonglycosylated polypeptides occurred in appropriate subcellular fractions of normal mouse tissues. Rodent liver polypeptides reacting to the antibody also co-purify with previously described lysosomal sialic acid esterase activity and at least a portion of the cytosolic activity. Thus, two sialic acid 9-O-acetylesterases found in very different subcellular compartments can be encoded by a single gene by differential usage of a signal peptide-encoding exon at the N terminus. The 5'-rapid amplification of cDNA ends results and the differences in tissue-specific expression suggest that expression of these two products may be differentially regulated by independent promoters.

OB-BP1/Siglec-6. a leptin- and sialic acid-binding protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily

We report the expression cloning of a novel leptin-binding protein of the immunoglobulin superfamily (OB-BP1) and a cross-hybridizing clone (OB-BP2) that is identical to a recently described sialic acid-binding I-type lectin called Siglec-5. Comparisons to other known Siglec family members (CD22, CD33, myelin-associated glycoprotein, and sialoadhesin) show that OB-BP1, OB-BP2/Siglec-5, and CD33/Siglec-3 constitute a unique related subgroup with a high level of overall amino acid identity: OB-BP1 versus Siglec-5 (59%), OB-BP1 versus CD33 (63%), and OB-BP2/Siglec-5 versus CD33 (56%). The cytoplasmic domains are not as highly conserved, but display novel motifs which are putative sites of tyrosine phosphorylation, including an immunoreceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitory motif and a motif found in SLAM and SLAM-like proteins. Human tissues showed high levels of OB-BP1 mRNA in placenta and moderate expression in spleen, peripheral blood leukocytes, and small intestine. OB-BP2/Siglec-5 mRNA was detected in peripheral blood leukocytes, lung, spleen, and placenta. A monoclonal antibody specific for OB-BP1 confirmed high expression in the cyto- and syncytiotrophoblasts of the placenta. Using this antibody on peripheral blood leukocytes showed an almost exclusive expression pattern on B cells. Recombinant forms of the extracellular domains of OB-BP1, OB-BP2/Siglec-5, and CD33/Siglec-3 were assayed for specific binding of leptin. While OB-BP1 exhibited tight binding (K(d) 91 nM), the other two showed weak binding with K(d) values in the 1-2 microM range. Studies with sialylated ligands indicated that OB-BP1 selectively bound Neu5Acalpha2-6GalNAcalpha (sialyl-Tn) allowing its formal designation as Siglec-6. The identification of OB-BP1/Siglec-6 as a Siglec family member, coupled with its restricted expression pattern, suggests that it may mediate cell-cell recognition events by interacting with sialylated glycoprotein ligands expressed on specific cell populations. We also propose a role for OB-BP1 in leptin physiology, as a molecular sink to regulate leptin serum levels.

Evolutionary considerations in relating oligosaccharide diversity to biological function

The oligosaccharide chains (glycans) attached to cell surface and extracellular proteins and lipids are known to mediate many important biological roles. However, for many glycans, there are still no evident functions that are of obvious benefit to the organism that synthesizes them. There is also no clear explanation for the extreme complexity and diversity of glycans that can be found on a given glycoconjugate or cell type. Based on the limited information available about the scope and distribution of this diversity among taxonomic groups, it is difficult to see clear trends or patterns consistent with different evolutionary lineages. It appears that closely related species may not necessarily share close similarities in their glycan diversity, and that more derived species may have simpler as well as more complex structures. Intraspecies diversity can also be quite extensive, often without obvious functional relevance. We suggest one general explanation for these observations, that glycan diversification in complex multicellular organisms is driven by evolutionary selection pressures of both endogenous and exogenous origin. We argue that exogenous selection pressures mediated by viral and microbial pathogens and parasites that recognize glycans have played a more prominent role, favoring intra- and interspecies diversity. This also makes it difficult to appreciate and elucidate the specific endogenous roles of the glycans within the organism that synthesizes them.