C-type lectin from red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii participates in cellular immune response

A novel exoskeletal-derived C-type lectin facilitates phagocytosis of hemocytes in the oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense

C-type lectins (CTLs) execute critical functions in multiple immune responses of crustaceans as a member of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) family. In this study, a novel CTL was identified from the exoskeleton of the oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense (MnLec3). The full-length cDNA of MnLec3 was 1150 bp with an open reading frame of 723 bp, encoding 240 amino acids. MnLec3 protein contained a signal peptide and one single carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD). MnLec3 transcripts were widely distributed at the exoskeleton all over the body. Significant up-regulation of MnLec3 in exoskeleton after Aeromonas hydrophila challenged suggested the involvement of MnLec3 as well as the possible function of the exoskeleton in immune response. In vitro tests with recombinant MnLec3 protein (rMnLec3) manifested that it had polysaccharide binding activity, a wide spectrum of bacterial binding activity and agglutination activity only for tested Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Vibrio anguillarum and A. hydrophila). Moreover, rMnLec3 significantly promoted phagocytic ability of hemocytes against A. hydrophila in vivo. What's more, MnLec3 interference remarkably impaired the survivability of the prawns when infected with A. hydrophila. Collectively, these results ascertained that MnLec3 derived from exoskeleton took an essential part in immune defense of the prawns against invading bacteria as a PRR.

Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of WSSV-Challenged Penaeus vannamei with Variable Resistance Levels

The Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, is highly susceptible to white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Our study explored the transcriptomic responses of P. vannamei from resistant and susceptible families, uncovering distinct expression patterns after WSSV infection. The analysis revealed a higher number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the susceptible family following WSSV infection compared to the resistant family, when both were evaluated against their respective control groups, indicating that the host resistance of the family line influences the transcriptome. The results also showed that subsequent to an identical duration following WSSV infection, there were more DEGs in P. vannamei with a high viral load than in those with a low viral load. To identify common transcriptomic responses, we profiled DEGs across families at 96 and 228 h post-infection (hpi). The analysis yielded 64 up-regulated and 37 down-regulated DEGs at 96 hpi, with 33 up-regulated and 34 down-regulated DEGs at 228 hpi, showcasing the dynamics of the transcriptomic response over time. Real-time RT-PCR assays confirmed significant DEG expression changes post-infection. Our results offer new insights into shrimp's molecular defense mechanisms against WSSV.

Molecular Characterization and Expression Analysis of the C-Type Lectin Domain Family 4 Member F in Litopenaeus vannamei against White Spot Syndrome Virus

White spot disease (WSD) outbreaks pose a significant threat to the Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) farming industry. The causative agent is the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). There are no effective treatments for WSD so far. Therefore, understanding the resistance mechanisms of L. vannamei against the WSSV is crucial. C-type lectins (CTLs) are important pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that promote agglutination, phagocytosis, encapsulation, bacteriostasis, and antiviral infections. This study cloned the C-type lectin domain family 4 member F (LvCLEC4F) from L. vannamei. LvCLEC4F contains a 492 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a protein of 163 amino acids, including a carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD). Following a challenge with the WSSV, the expression profile of LvCLEC4F was significantly altered. Using RNA interference (RNAi) technology, it was found that LvCLEC4F promotes WSSV replication and affects the expression levels of genes related to the regulation of apoptosis, signaling and cellular stress response, and immune defense. Meanwhile, the hemolymph agglutination phenomenon in vivo was weakened when LvCLEC4F was knocked down. These results indicated that LvCLEC4F may play an important role in the interaction between L. vannamei and WSSV.

Pathogenicity and transcriptomic exploration of Vibrio fortis in Penaeus monodon

In this study, a strain (recorded as Y6) was isolated from the biofloc pool, its DNA was extracted for 16S rDNA sequencing and compared in the NCBI database, and it was identified as Vibrio fortis. The V. fortis was activated, cultured, and artificially injected into Penaeus monodon to observe the symptoms and calculate the semi-lethal concentration (LC50). It was found that the symptoms of the red leg, an empty stomach, and enlarged hepatopancreas of P. monodon after infection with V. fortis. The LC50 was 4.00 × 107, 2.24 × 107, 1.82 × 107, 1.41 × 107, 7.52 × 106 and 3.31 × 106 CFU/mL at 16, 24, 32, 48, 128, and 144 hpi, respectively. The K-B disk method was used to detect the sensitivity of V. fortis to various antibiotic drugs. V. fortis resisted Ampicillin, Piperacillin, Cefazolin, Cephalothin and Cefoxitin. Highly sensitive to Polymyxin B, Tobramycin, Gentamicin, Cefepime, Cefoperazone and Streptomycin. To explore the molecular response mechanism of V. fortis infection in P. monodon, the hepatopancreas of P. monodon infected with V. fortis at 24 and 48 hpi by transcriptome sequencing, and a total of 347 DEGs were obtained (214 up-regulated DEGs and 133 down-regulated DEGs). In the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of DEGs, significant changes were found in genes and signaling pathways related to immune system and substance metabolism, including NOD-like receptor signaling pathways, Toll and Imd signaling pathways, C-type lectin receptor signaling pathways and pyruvate metabolism. This study initially revealed the immune response of P. monodon to V. fortis infection from the molecular level and provided a reference for further understanding of the study and control of the vibriosis of shrimp.

Common carp intelectin 3 (cITLN3) plays a role in the innate immune response

Intelectin is a lectin with the capacity to recognize and bind to carbohydrates. In this study, we successfully cloned cITLN3 from common carp, which consists of a signal peptide domain, a FReD domain, and an intelectin domain. The expression levels of cITLN3 were detected in various organs of common carp, including the liver, head kidney, spleen, foregut, midgut, and hindgut, with the highest expression observed in the liver. Following infection with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) or Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila), the expression level of cITLN3 was significantly upregulated in all organs of common carp. Subsequently, we expressed and purified the recombinant cITLN3 protein using an E. coli expression system. The cITLN3 could aggregate both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in the presence of Ca2+, with a stronger affinity for gram-positive bacteria. Moreover, our study demonstrated that cITLN3 displayed a higher binding affinity towards PGN compared to LPS. Furthermore, we observed that cITLN3 had the potential to inhibit bacterial proliferation in common carp and safeguard intestinal integrity during bacterial stimulation. And the results also indicated that cITLN3 might played a role in the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signaling pathway activation.

Research progress of pattern recognition receptors in red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

Though Procambarus clarkii (red swamp crayfish) is a lower invertebrate, it has nonetheless developed a complex innate immune system. The crayfish farming industry has suffered considerable economic losses in recent years as a consequence of bacterial and viral diseases. Hence, perhaps the most effective ways to prevent microbial infections in P. clarkii are to examine and elucidate its innate immunity. The first step in the immune response is to recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). PRRs are expressed mainly on immune cell surfaces and recognize at least one PAMP. Thence, downstream immune responses are activated and pathogens are phagocytosed. To date, the PRRs identified in P. clarkii include Toll-like receptors (TLRs), lectins, fibrinogen-related proteins (FREPs), and β-1,3-glucan-binding proteins (BGRPs). The present review addresses recent progress in research on PRRs and aims to provide guidance for improving immunity and preventing and treating infectious diseases in P. clarkii.

Common carp Peptidoglycan Recognition Protein 2 (CcPGRP2) plays a role in innate immunity for defense against bacterial infections

PGRP is a family of pattern recognition molecules of the innate immune system. PGRPs are conserved from insects to mammals and have diverse functions in antimicrobial defense. Here we cloned a common carp PGRP ortholog, CcPGRP2 containing a conserved C-terminal PGRP domain. We tested the expression levels of CcPGRP2 in the liver, spleen, kidney, foregut, midgut, and hindgut of the highest level in the liver. The expression of CcPGRP2 upregulated in common carp infected with Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila) or Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Recombinant CcPGRP2 protein expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) system and the purified CcPGRP2 could maintain the integrity of intestinal mucosa of common carp infected with A. hydrophila. In addition, CcPGRP2 could agglutinate or bind both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in a Zn²⁺-dependent manner. CcPGRP2 has a stronger agglutination and bacterial binding ability in gram-positive bacteria than in gram-negative bacteria. It is perhaps because CcPGRP2 could bind peptidoglycan (PGN) with a higher degree to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). And CcPGRP2 shows antimicrobial activities in the presence of Zn²⁺. Our results of CcPGRP2 provided new insight into the function of PGRP in the innate immunity of the common carp.

Impact of aluminum exposure on oxidative stress, intestinal changes and immune responses in red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

Aluminum (Al) is an abundant metal that has been classified as a threatening pollutant due to indiscriminate use and anthropogenic activities. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of Al on crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), including biochemical change, histological alteration, gut microbial community diversification, and immune changes. The bioaccumulation of Al was detected in the hemolymph and intestine of crayfish after Al exposure at different time points. Results showed that Al exposure significantly induced oxidative stress and caused pathohistological changes on intestinal barrier structures in crayfish. It was found that the intestinal microbiota was affected by retained Al and the intestinal community diversity was changed after Al treated in the crayfish. Furthermore, Al exposure affected the immunity in crayfish, by altering the expression of a set of immune-related genes, as well as reducing the phenoloxidase and lysozyme activities. Moreover, Al exposure promoted hemocytes apoptosis and impaired hemophagocytic capacity against Vibro parahamolyticus, resulting in higher mortality of crayfish upon bacterial infection. Taken these results together, we conclude that excessive Al exposure caused adverse effects on multiple biological processes of crayfish and Al pollution is a potential threat to crayfish culture.

A C-type lectin containing two carbohydrate recognition domains participates in the antibacterial response by regulating the JNK pathway and promoting phagocytosis

C-type lectins (CTLs) are important immune-related molecules in crustaceans. However, the immunologic mechanism by which CTLs eliminate invading pathogens is still unclear. In this study, we studied the antimicrobial mechanism of a CTL containing two carbohydrate recognition domains (DClec). After Aeromonas hydrophila challenge, several antimicrobial peptides (ALF1, ALF4, ALF5 and lys-i2) were upregulated. The transcript levels of ALF1, ALF4 and ALF5 were downregulated after A. hydrophila challenge in groups with DClec interference or inhibition compared with the control group. Similar results were obtained after c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) interference. This finding indicates that DClec might regulate the JNK signalling pathway and subsequently adjust antimicrobial peptide (AMP) expression. Additionally, we found that DClec was secreted into the hemolymph. Recombinant protein DClec (rDClec) agglutinated gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. Both rDClec and the native DClec in hemolymph bound to different bacteria. In this process, Ca²⁺ promoted the rDClec bacterial binding ability. After DClec interference, the phagocytosis ability of hemocytes was lower than that of the control group. Therefore, DClec can facilitate bacterial elimination by promoting AMPs expression and hemocyte phagocytosis.

Orally administered nano-polystyrene caused vitellogenin alteration and oxidative stress in the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii)

Nanoplastics (≤100 nm) represent the smallest fraction of plastic litter and may result in the aquatic environment as degradation products of larger plastic material. To date, few studies focused on the interactions of micro- and nanoplastics with freshwater Decapoda. The red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii, Girard, 1852) is an invasive species able to tolerate highly perturbed environments. As a benthic opportunistic feeder, this species may be susceptible to plastic ingestion. In this study, adult P. clarkii, at intermolt stage, were exposed to 100 μg of 100 nm carboxylated polystyrene nanoparticles (PS NPs) through diet in a 72 h acute toxicity test. An integrated approach was conceived to assess the biological effects of PS NPs, by analyzing both transcriptomic and physiological responses. Total hemocyte counts, basal and total phenoloxidase activities, glycemia and total protein concentration were investigated in crayfish hemolymph at 0 h, 24 h, 48 h and 72 h from PS NPs administration to evaluate general stress response over time. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the hemocytes and hepatopancreas were analyzed to ascertain the response of crayfish to PS NP challenge after 72 h. At a physiological level, crayfish were able to compensate for the induced stress, not exceeding generic stress thresholds. The RNA-Sequencing analysis revealed the altered expression of few genes involved in immune response, oxidative stress, gene transcription and translation, protein degradation, lipid metabolism, oxygen demand, and reproduction after PS NPs exposure. This study suggests that a low concentration of PS NPs may induce mild stress in crayfish, and sheds light on molecular pathways possibly involved in nanoplastic toxicity.

C-type lectin with a QPN motif from swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus displays broad nonself-recognition ability and functions as an opsonin

In the immune system, C-type lectins, as pattern recognition receptors, have an important function. Carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRDs) endow C-type lectins with the function of recognizing and scavenging non-self factors. In the present study, a new C-type lectin (designated as PtCTL-9 according to the order of discovery) from swimming crab (Portunus trituberculatus) was characterized. QPN (Gln-Pro-Asn) and FHS (Phe-His-Ser) were identified as the key motifs that determine carbohydrate binding. Motif QPN was mutated to QPD (Gln-Pro-Asp) (M1) and EPN (Glu-Pro-Asn) (M2) to study its immune function and for comparative analysis. The results showed that PtCTL-9 displayed broad non-self immunity. PtCTL-9 could also function as an opsonin to promote phagocytosis and the in vitro encapsulation of hemocytes. These results indicated that PtCTL-9 has an extensive nonself-recognition ability, regulates pathogen clearance, and its QPN motif is important in PtCTL-9's immune function.

Characterization of a common carp intelectin gene with bacterial binding and agglutination activity

Intelectin (ITLN) is a type of glycan-binding lectin involved in many physiological processes and some human diseases. Here we report a common carp intelectin (cITLN). Like other orthologs, cITLN also contains a conserved fibrinogen-related domain (FReD) and a unique intelectin domain, expresses in all the tissues tested with the highest level in the hindgut, and responds to bacterial challenge in the acute phase. We also expressed cITLN in Escherichia coli (E. coli) system, and the purified recombinant cITLN could neither affect the surface of bacteria nor inhibit the growth of bacteria, but it can agglutinate both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in a calcium-dependent manner. The cITLN's ability of agglutination of gram-positive bacteria is stronger than that of gram-negative bacteria. This is probably because recombinant cITLN could binding peptidoglycan (PGN) with a higher degree to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results of cITLN provided new insight into the function of intelectin in the intestinal mucosal immunity.

Purification and partial characterization of carbohydrate-recognition protein C-type lectin from Hemifusus pugilinus

A mannose binding lectin (C-type lectin) was detected in a molluscan snail Hemifusus pugilinus, this lectin molecule was isolated and purified from the plasma using mannose-fixed sepharose CL-4B column affinity chromatography. The purified protein corresponds to the molecular weight of 118 kDa on an SDS-PAGE gel. The divalent cation-dependent nature of the H. pugilinus lectin (Hp-Lec) evidenced through pH and thermal stability analysis using Circular Dichroism (CD) and Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) respectively. Functional investigations of the Hp-Lec reveal a broad spectrum of bacterial agglutination activity against wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Furthermore, Hp-Lec displayed the haemo agglutination activity against vertebrate red blood cells (RBCs) and its titers were recorded. Excitingly, microbial virulent pathogens such as fungal strains tested against the purified Hp-Lec (25 and 50 μg/ml), which exhibits the effective antifungal activity against tested fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus niger and A. flavus.

A stomach-specific lectin plays a crucial role in the innate immunity of red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

C-type lectins (CTLs) play important roles in innate immune system of crustaceans as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). In this study, a novel CTL gene was obtained from the red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, designated as PcLec. PcLec encodes a peptide with 175 amino acids, with a signal peptide and a single carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD). The PcLec transcripts were specifically expressed in crayfish stomach and were induced by bacterial challenge. In vitro assays with recombinant PcLec protein revealed that it had bacterial binding activity, polysaccharide binding activity, bacterial agglutination activity, and antimicrobial activity. Most importantly, PcLec knockdown significantly impaired the survivability of crayfish upon oral infection with its pathogen A. hydrophila. According to these results, we infer that the PcLec plays a crucial role in antibacterial defense of crayfish.

Cloning and characterization of chst11 from Procambarus clarkii involved in the host immune response of white spot syndrome virus and Aeromonas hydrophila

Carbohydrate sulfotransferases 11 (chst11) is one of the enzymes that synthesize chondroitin sulfate (CS), which has extensive immune functions in vitro and plays a critical role in mediating the infection of host by pathogenic microorganisms. However, whether it has immune functions in crayfish is still poorly understood. In our previous study of transcriptome, chst11 was differentially expressed in susceptible individuals and resistant individuals of Procambarus clarkii after white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) injection. Thus, in this study, the sequence of chst11 was obtained from P. clarkii for the first time and analyzed, and the expression pattern of chst11 was investigated. Besides, the purified recombinant protein of chst11 effect in protection in WSSV infection was explored. The full length of chst11 was 1536 bp with an 831-bp open reading frame (ORF), which encoding 276 amino acids residues with a calculated molecular mass of 33.1 kDa. The chst11 contains a Sulfotransfer_2 domain, one N-glycosylation site and three O-glycosylation sites. Phylogenetic analysis results showed that chst11 had the highest similarity to Penaeus vannamei (79.93%). The expression pattern of chst11 in different tissues indicated that chst11 was expressed highest in gut, gill and hypodermis, lowest in testicular duct, periesophageal nerve and hemocytes. The chst11 had different expression patterns in different tissues when the crayfish was challenged by WSSV, Aeromonas hydrophila and CpG ODN. Recombinant chst11 protein significantly reduced the amount of WSSV copy number in hepatopancreas at 6 h and 12 h post injection compared to the control group injected with bovine serum albumin (BSA). It was found that chst11 protein enhanced the expression of peroxinectin, proPO in hepatopancreas and midgut and the C-type lectin (ctl) in hemocytes and hepatopancreas. Intramuscularly injection of juvenile crayfish with chst11 protein decreased 60% mortality compared to the control group with BSA. This study is the first report on the antiviral function of chst11 in the immune system of crustacean.

Functional conservation and division of two single-carbohydrate-recognition domain C-type lectins from the nipa palm hispid beetle Octodonta nipae (Maulik)

As an invasive pest, the complete and effective innate immune system is crucial for the nipa palm hispid beetle Octodonta nipae (Maulik) to adjust to new environments. C-type lectins (CTLs) are large families of carbohydrate-binding proteins that possess one or more characteristic carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRD) and function as pattern-recognition receptors, which play important roles in mediating humoral and cellular immunity. In the present study, for the first time, we report two CTL-Ss (single-CRD CTLs) from O. nipae (Maulik) (designated OnCTL1 and OnCTL2). The two CTL-Ss share high identity at conserved amino acids associated with conserved carbohydrate binding sites Gln-Pro-Asp (QPD) motifs and clearly show a 1:1 orthologous relationship in insects, which endow them with functional conservation and diversification. mRNA abundance analysis showed that OnCTL1 was upregulated upon Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli challenge at 6 and 12 h, while OnCTL2 underwent no changes upon E. coli challenge and was even downregulated after S. aureus infection. Knockdown of OnCTL1 significantly decreased the transcripts of two key serine proteases (prophenoloxidase activating factors), OnPPAF1 and OnPPAF3, followed by the reduction of haemolymph phenoloxidase activity; it also increased the expression of Defensin2B. In contrast, silencing of OnCTL2 significantly decreased the expression of Defensin2B and Attacin3C, the encapsulation index, and the phagocytosis rate compared to the dsEGFP group. The spreading results showed that more irregularly shaped plasmatocytes and lower levels of aggregation were found in OnCTL2-silenced pupae than in the dsOnCTL1 and dsEGFP groups. We can infer from the results of this study that the two OnCTLs play important roles in the immune system and generate a functional division: OnCTL1 seems to function more in humoral immunity including mediating bacterial recognition and activating the phenoloxidase cascade, and OnCTL2 plays a greater role in enhancing cellular immunity. These observations could replenish information on the functional diversification of insect CTLs, and also provide valuable information to unravel the immunity in O. nipae.

Spiroplasma eriocheiris Invasion Into Macrobrachium rosenbergii Hemocytes Is Mediated by Pathogen Enolase and Host Lipopolysaccharide and β-1, 3-Glucan Binding Protein

Spiroplasma eriocheiris is a crustacean pathogen, without a cell wall, that causes enormous economic loss. Macrobrachium rosenbergii hemocytes are the major targets during S. eriocheiris infection. As wall-less bacteria, S. eriocheiris, its membrane protein should interact with host membrane protein directly and firstly when invaded in host cell. In this investigation, six potential hemocyte receptor proteins were identified firstly that mediate interaction between S. eriocheiris and M. rosenbergii. Among these proteins, lipopolysaccharide and β-1, 3-glucan binding protein (MrLGBP) demonstrated to bind to S. eriocheiris using bacterial binding assays and confocal microscopy. Four spiroplasma ligand proteins for MrLGBP were isolated and identified. But, competitive assessment demonstrated that only enolase of S. eriocheiris (SeEnolase) could be a candidate ligand for MrLGBP. Subsequently, the interaction between MrLGBP and SeEnolase was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation and co-localization in vitro. After the interaction between MrLGBP and SeEnolase was inhibited by antibody neutralization test, the virulence ability of S. eriocheiris was effectively reduced. The quantity of S. eriocheiris decreased in Drosophila S2 cells after overexpression of MrLGBP, compared with the controls. In addition, RNA interference (RNAi) knockdown of MrLGBP made M. rosenbergii more sensitive to S. eriocheiris infection. Further studies found that the immune genes, including MrLGBP and prophenoloxidase (MrproPO), MrRab7A, and Mrintegrin α1 were significantly up-regulated by SeEnolase stimulation. After SeEnolase pre-stimulation, the ability of M. rosenbergii resistance to S. eriocheiris was significantly improved. Collectively, this investigation demonstrated that MrLGBP and pathogen SeEnolase involved in mediating S. eriocheiris invasion into M. rosenbergii hemocytes.

A novel invertebrate toll-like receptor with broad recognition spectrum from thick shell mussel Mytilus coruscus

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a category of most well recognized pattern recognition molecules that act on a vital role in both innate and adaptive immunity. In the present study, a novel toll-like receptor (McTLRw) was identified and characterized in thick shell mussel Mytilus coruscus. McTLRw possesses one intracellular Toll/interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor (TIR) domain, one transmembrane region (TM), one leucine rich repeat N-terminal domain (LRR_NT) and a few of leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), which all are common in typical TLRs. McTLRw transcripts were constitutively expressed in all examined tissues with higher expression levels in immune related tissues, and were significantly induced in haemocytes with the challenges of live Vibrio alginolyticus, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peptidoglycans (PGN) and β-glucan (GLU), but not induced by polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C). rMcTLRw exhibited affinity to LPS, PGN and GLU while no affinity to poly I:C. Further, the downstream of TLR signaling pathway myeloid differentiation factor 88a (MyD88a), interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase-4 (IRAK4) and tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) were significantly repressed in McTLRw silenced mussels while challenged with LPS. These results collectively indicated that McTLRw is one member of TLR family and involved in immune response to against invaders by taking participate in TLR mediated signaling pathway.

Characterization and functional analysis of a novel mannose-binding lectin from the swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is a pattern recognition receptor (PRR) that plays an important role in the innate immune response. In this study, a novel mannose-binding lectin was cloned from the swimmimg crab Portunus trituberculatus (designated as PtMBL). The complete cDNA of PtMBL gene was 1208 bp in length with an open reading frame (ORF) of 732 bp that encoded 244 amino acid proteins. PtMBL shared lower amino acid similarity with other MBLs, yet it contained the conserved carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD) with QPD motif and was clearly member of the collectin family. PtMBL transcripts were mainly detected in eyestalk and gill with sexually dimorphic expression. The temporal expression of PtMBL in hemocytes showed different activation times after challenged with Vibrio alginolyticus, Micrococcus luteus and Pichia pastoris. The recombinant PtMBL protein revealed antimicrobial activity against the tested Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. It could also bind and agglutinate (Ca²⁺-dependent) both bacteria and yeast. Furthermore, the agglutinating activity could be inhibited by both d-galactose and d-mannose, suggesting the broader pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) recognition spectrum of PtMBL. These results together indicate that PtMBL could serve as not only a PRR in immune recognition but also a potential antibacterial protein in the innate immune response of crab.

Zebrafish intelectin 1 (zITLN1) plays a role in the innate immune response

Intelectin displays carbohydrate binding capacity and has been demonstrated to agglutinate bacteria, suggesting its role in innate immunity. It has also been linked to many pathogenic conditions in human. After reporting two amphioxus orthologs and the zebrafish intelectin 2 (zITLN2), here we cloned and characterized zebrafish intelectin 1 (zITLN1). Like zITLN2, zITLN1 also contains a conserved fibrinogen-related domain (FReD) and a unique intelectin domain (ITLN-D), expresses in all the tissues tested, with the highest level in intestine, and responds to bacterial challenge in acute phase. We also expressed zITLN1 in E. coli system, and purified recombinant zITLN1 could agglutinate both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in a calcium dependent manner. Its ability to agglutinate Gram-positive bacteria is stronger than that to Gram-negative bacteria whereas zITLN2 did not show such preference. This is probably due to the fact that recombinant zITLN1 could bind peptidoglycan (PGN) with a higher degree to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Our results of zITLN1 provided new insight into the evolution and function of the intelectin family.

Novel fibrinogen-related protein with single FReD contributes to the innate immunity of Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Fibrinogen-related proteins (FREPs) are widely found in vertebrates and invertebrates, and they play crucial roles in innate immunity. Here, a new FREP named as MrFREP was identified from giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii). The full-length cDNA of MrFREP measures 1649 bp in length and consists of a 1086 bp open reading frame encoding a polypeptide composed of 361 amino acids. The MrFREP sequence has a signal peptide with 20 amino acids and a fibrinogen-related domain (FReD) with 223 amino acids. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MrFREP was grouped with FREPs from Marsupenaeus japonicus and Litopenaeus vannamei. BLASTp results showed that it had 43% identity with a FREP from M. japonicus. The expression of MrFREP was higher in gills, intestine, and hepatopancreas than in hemocytes, heart, stomach, and muscles. The expression levels of MrFREP in gills and intestine were obviously upregulated after they were exposed to Vibrio parahaemolyticus or White spot syndrome virus infection. Recombinant MrFReD protein (rMrFReD) could bind to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and agglutinate the tested bacteria in the presence of calcium. rMrFReD demonstrated lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan binding activities. rMrFReD could accelerate the clearance of V. parahaemolyticus in vivo. These results suggested that MrFREP could function as a pattern recognition receptor contributing to the innate immunity of M. rosenbergii.

Three newly identified galectin homologues from triangle sail mussel (Hyriopsis cumingii) function as potential pattern-recognition receptors

Galactoside-binding lectins, also known as galectins, play crucial roles in innate immune response in invertebrates. In this study, three cDNA sequences from Hyriopsis cumingii were identified and collectively called HcGalec genes. Each of the three deduced HcGalec proteins contained a galactose-binding lectin domain or a GLECT domain. All the three HcGalec genes are mainly present in the hepatopancreas and gills, and their expression is induced at 24 h after bacterial challenge. Three recombinant HcGalec proteins can bind and agglutinate (Ca²⁺-dependent) various microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These proteins can attach to mannan and peptidoglycan. Meanwhile, the expression of the three HcGalec genes in the gills were significantly down-regulated after dsRNA interference (HcGalec1-RNAi, HcGalec2-RNAi, and HcGalec3-RNAi) and Vibrio parahaemolyticus injection. The expression levels of some antimicrobial peptides, including lysozyme 1 and lysozyme 2, were also markedly decreased after dsRNA interference. Overall, these results suggested that these three HcGalec proteins may function as potential receptors participating in the innate immune responses of H. cumingii against bacterial infection.

Crayfish immunity - Recent findings

Freshwater crayfish is an important commodity as well as a successful model for studies on crustacean immunity. Due to the ease with which they are kept and the available methods for hemocyte separation and culture they have proven to be very useful. Here, recent progress regarding pattern recognition, immune effector production and antiviral mechanisms are discussed. Several cases of functional resemblance between vertebrate complement and the crayfish immune reactions are highlighted.

The functional characterization and comparison of two single CRD containing C-type lectins with novel and typical key motifs from Portunus trituberculatus

C-type lectins are a superfamily of Ca²⁺-dependent carbohydrate-recognition proteins, which play crucial roles in innate immunity including nonself-recognition and pathogen elimination. In the present study, two single-CRD containing C-type lectins were identified from swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus (designated as PtCTL-2 and PtCTL-3). The open reading frame (ORF) of PtCTL-2 encoded polypeptides of 485 amino acids with a signal peptide and a single carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD), while PtCTL-3's ORF encoded polypeptides of 241 amino acids with a coiled-coil region and a single-CRD. The key motifs determining carbohydrate binding specificity in PtCTL-2 and PtCTL-3 were EPR (Glu-Pro-Arg) and QPD (Gln-Pro-Asp). EPR is a motif being identified for the first time, whereas QPD is a typical motif in C-type lectins. Different PAMPs binding features of the two recombinant proteins - PtCTL-2 (rPtCTL-2) and PtCTL-3 (rPtCTL-3) have been observed in our experiments. rPtCTL-2 could bind three pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) with relatively high affinity, including glucan, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan (PGN), while rPtCTL-3 could barely bind any of them. However, rPtCTL-2 could bind seven kinds of microbes and rPtCTL-3 could bind six kinds in microbe binding assay. Moreover, rPtCTL-2 and rPtCTL-3 exhibited similar agglutination activity against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi in agglutination assay. All these results illustrated that PtCTL-2 and PtCTL-3 could function as important pattern-recognition receptors (PRR) with broad nonself-recognition spectrum involved in immune defense against invaders. In addition, the results of carbohydrate binding specificity showed that PtCTL-2 with novel key motif had broad carbohydrate binding specificity, while PtCTL-3 with typical key motif possessed different carbohydrate binding specificity from the classical binding rule. Furthermore, PtCTL-2 and PtCTL-3 could also function as opsonin to enhance encapsulation of hemocytes against Ni-NTA beads.

Function of two ficolin-like proteins in innate immune defense of the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense

Ficolins have crucial functions in recognizing and eliminating pathogens in innate immunity. In this study, we identified two ficolin-like genes from the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense. These genes were designated as MnFico1 and MnFico2. MnFico1 cDNA has 1600 bp, whereas MnFico2 has 1486 bp. In addition to a coiled-coil region or a low complexity region, the two ficolins both contained a signal peptide and a fibrinogen-related domain. qRT-PCR results showed that the highest expression level of MnFico1 expression was in the gills, whereas that of MnFico2 was in the heart. The transcripts of MnFico1 and MnFico2 could both respond to bacteria challenge. The transcription of antilipopolysaccharide factors ALFs (MnALF1 and MnALF2) and crustin genes (MnCru4, MnCru5, MnCru6, and MnCru7) was inhibited in the gills of MnFico1 or MnFico2 knockdown prawns at 24 h Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenge. Recombinant proteins of rMnFico1 and rMnFico2 could bind toward diverse bacteria and agglutinate Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria with the presence of calcium (Ca2+). rMnFico1 and rMnFico2 proteins also have lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan binding activity. Both recombinant ficolin proteins could help the prawn to facilitate the clearance of V. parahaemolyticus in vivo. Our results suggested that MnFico1 and MnFico2 might serve as pattern recognition receptors in M. nipponense.

A C-type lectin, Nattectin-like protein (CaNTC) in Qihe crucian carp Carassius auratus: Binding ability with LPS, PGN and various bacteria, and agglutinating activity against bacteria

C-type lectins (CTLs), as the members of pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), play the significant roles in innate immunity through binding with pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) on the surface of microbe. In the present study, a novel CTL, Nattectin-like protein (named as CaNTC), was investigated in Qihe crucian carp Carassius auratus. The full-length cDNA of CaNTC was composed of 776 bp, with a 152 bp 5'-untranslated region (UTR), a 492 bp ORF encoding a 163-aa protein, and a 132 bp 3'-UTR with a polyadenylation signal sequence AATAAA and a poly(A) tail. The deduced amino acid sequence of CaNTC contained a signal peptide, a single carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) which had four conserved disulfide-bonded cysteine residues (Cys⁵⁷-Cys¹⁵⁰, Cys¹²⁶-Cys¹⁴²), and an EPN/WND motif required for carbohydrate-binding specificity. With regard to the mRNA transcript of CaNTC, it was predominately expressed in liver. The temporal expressions of CaNTC were obviously up-regulated in liver, spleen and head-kidney after challenged by Aeromonas hydrophila and poly I: C, respectively, and the change pattern was in the time-depended manner. The recombinant CaNTC (rCaNTC) purified from Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3), exhibited strong binding ability with LPS and PGN, as well as all tested bacteria in a Ca²⁺-independent manner. With regard to the agglutinating activity of rCaNTC, rCaNTC was able to agglutinate rabbit erythrocytes and three kinds of bacteria (Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli and A. hydrophila, and Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus) in a Ca²⁺-dependent manner. These findings collectively demonstrated that CaNTC, as a PRR, could be involved in the innate immunity and play an important role in immune defense of C. auratus.

A C1qDC Protein (HcC1qDC6) with Three Tandem C1q Domains Is Involved in Immune Response of Triangle-Shell Pearl Mussel (Hyriopsis cumingii)

C1q-domain-containing (C1qDC) proteins are a family of proteins with a globular C1q (gC1q) domain and participate in several immune responses. In this study, a C1qDC gene was identified from the triangle-shell pearl mussel Hyriopsis cumingii (designated as HcC1qDC6). This gene has a full-length cDNA of 1782 bp and an open reading frame of 1,335 bp that encodes a 444-amino acid polypeptide containing three gC1q domains. HcC1qDC6 contains at least five exons and four introns. The mRNA transcripts of HcC1qDC6 were found to have the highest expression levels in the mantle tissue. The expression levels in the mantle and hepatopancreas were significantly upregulated by Staphylococcus aureus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus challenges. Moreover, knockdown of HcC1qDC6 inhibits the expression of two immune-related genes (tumor necrosis factor and whey acidic protein). The recombinant proteins of C1q1, C1q2, and C1q3 all exhibit a binding activity against seven bacterial species and directly bind to peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharide. The results indicate that HcC1qDC6 is involved in the innate immunity of H. cumingii.

Molecular cloning and analysis of a C-type lectin from silkworm Bombyx mori

C-type lectins (CTLs) play a variety of roles in plants and animals. They are involved in animal development, pathogen recognition, and the activation of immune responses. CTLs carry one or more non-catalytic carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRDs) to bind specific carbohydrates reversibly. Here, we report the molecular cloning and functional analysis of a single-CRD CTL, named C-type lectin-S2 (BmCTL-S2) from the domesticated silkmoth Bombyx mori (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae). The ORF of CTL-S2 is 666 bp, which encodes a putative protein of 221 amino acids. BmCTL-S2 is expressed in a variety of immune-related tissues, including hemocytes and fat body among others. BmCTL-S2 mRNA level in the midgut and the fat body was significantly increased by bacterial challenges. The recombinant protein (rBmCTL-S2) bound different bacterial cell wall components and bacterial cells. rBmCTL-S2 also inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Taken together, we infer that BmCTL-S2 is a pattern-recognition receptor with antibacterial activities.

Identification of a Macrobrachium nipponense C-type lectin with a close evolutionary relationship to vertebrate lectins

C-type lectins (CTLs) are involved in the innate immune defense of vertebrates and invertebrates against invading pathogens. This study cloned and characterized a novel C-type lectin (MnCTL) of the oriental river prawn, Macrobrachium nipponense. The cloned MnCTL cDNA encompasses an open reading frame of 774 nucleotides and encodes polypeptides of 257 residues. The deduced MnCTL protein contains a single carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) with an EPN (Glu-Pro-Asn) motif in calcium-binding site 2. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that MnCTL has a closer evolutionary relationship with vertebrate lectins than with invertebrate lectins. Tissue expression analysis showed that high levels of MnCTL are ubiquitously distributed in the gills and stomach of M. nipponense. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that MnCTL expression was up-regulated by bacteria or white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge. Knock-down of the MnCTL gene in WSSV-challenged prawns significantly decreased MnALF1 and MnALF2 transcript levels. The recombinant MnCRD (rMnCRD) agglutinated both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Vibrio parahaemolyticus) in the presence of calcium. Furthermore, rMnCRD could bind to all the tested bacteria with different activities. The sugar-binding assay showed that rMnCRD was able to bind lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, rMnCRD could accelerate bacterial clearance. On the contrary, MnCTL silencing by dsRNA interference could weaken the bacterial clearance ability. All these findings implicated MnCTL were involved in the antiviral and antibacterial innate immunity of M. nipponense.

A C-type lectin (MrLec) with high expression in intestine is involved in innate immune response of Macrobrachium rosenbergii

C-type lectins (CTLs) are pattern-recognition proteins that play an important role in innate immunity of vertebrates and invertebrates. In this study, a lectin cDNA named MrLec was cloned and characterized from giant freshwater prawns (Macrobrachiun rosenbergii). The full-length cDNA of MrLec was 1431 bp, which contained an open reading frame of 1041 bp that encoded a protein with 346 amino acids. MrLec was found to contain a typical signal peptide of 18 amino acids and a single carbohydrate-recognition domain with 121 amino acids. The phylogenetic analysis showed that MrLec was grouped with vertebrates and had 57% identity with C-type lectin 3 from Marsupenaeus japonicas. Tissue expression analysis showed that MrLec was ubiquitously distributed at a high level in the intestine, with lower expression levels in the hemocytes, heart, hepatopancreas, gill and stomach. Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection induced the upregulation of MrLec in the gills and intestine. For the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge, MrLec in gills was upregulated at 24, 36 and 48 h. In intestine, MrLec also went up at 36 and 48 h WSSV challenge. Recombinant MrLec can agglutinate (Ca²⁺-dependent) and bind both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. rMrLec could attach to lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicated possible MrLec involvement in the immune response of giant freshwater prawns.

C-type lectin (MrCTL) from the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii participates in innate immunity

C-type lectins (CTLs) play important roles in the innate immunity of invertebrates. In this study, a novel CTL with a single carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) containing an EPN (Glu-Pro-Asn) motif was identified from the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii. This CTL was designated as MrCTL. The cDNA of MrCTL is 1788 bp with a 657 bp open reading frame that encodes a protein of 218 amino acids. The cDNA and genome sequences of MrCTL show a polymorphism that leads to MrCTL isoforms. MrCTL was highly expressed in the gills and intestine of normal prawn, and its transcription increased after Vibrio parahaemolyticus or white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge. Recombinant mature MrCTL and its single CRD could agglutinate (Ca²⁺-dependent) and bind both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The recombinant proteins could attach to lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan in a dose-dependent manner. Recombinant MrCTL could accelerate bacterial clearance. Thus, MrCTL could serve as a pattern recognition receptor involved in the innate immunity of M. rosenbergii.

Molecular and functional characterization of a novel CD302 gene from ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis)

Recognizing the presence of invading pathogens by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) is key to mounting an effective innate immune response. Mammalian CD302 is an unconventional C-type lectin like receptor (CTLR) involved in the functional regulation of immune cells. However, the role of CD302 in fish remains unclear. In this study, we characterized a novel CD302 gene from ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis), which was tentatively named PaCD302. The cDNA sequence of PaCD302 is 1893 nucleotides in length, and encodes a polypeptide of 241 amino acids with molecular weight 27.1 kDa and pI 4.69. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic tree analysis showed that PaCD302 is a type I transmembrane CTLR devoid of the known amino acid residues essential for Ca(2+)-dependent sugar binding. PaCD302 mRNA expression was detected in all tissues and cells tested, with the highest level in the liver. Following Vibrio anguillarum infection, PaCD302 mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in all tissues tested. For further functional analysis, we generated a recombinant protein for PaCD302 (rPaCD302) by prokaryotic expression and raised a specific antibody against rPaCD302. Western blot analysis revealed that the native PaCD302 is glycosylated. Refolded rPaCD302 was unable to bind to five monosaccharides (l-fucose, d-galactose, d-glucose, d-mannose and N-acetyl glucosamine) or two other polysaccharides (lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan). It was able to bind to three Gram-positive and seven Gram-negative bacteria, but show no bacterial agglutinating activity. PaCD302 function blocking using anti-PaCD302 IgG resulted in inhibition of phagocytosis and bactericidal activity of ayu monocytes/macrophages (MO/MΦ), suggesting that PaCD302 regulates the function of ayu MO/MΦ. In summary, our study demonstrates that PaCD302 may participate in the immune response of ayu against bacterial infection via modulation of MO/MΦ function.

A zebrafish intelectin ortholog agglutinates both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria with binding capacity to bacterial polysaccharide

Intelectins are glycan-binding lectins found in various species including cephalochordates, urochordates, fish, amphibians and mammals. But their detailed functions are not well studied in zebrafish which is a good model to study native immunity. In this study, we cloned a zebrafish intelectin ortholog, zebrafish intelectin 2 (zITLN2), which contains a conserved fibrinogen-related domain (FReD) in the N-terminus and the unique intelectin domain in the C-terminus. We examined the tissue distribution of zITLN2 in adult zebrafish and found that zITLN2 was expressed in various organs with the highest level in intestine. Like amphioxus intelectins, zITLN2 expression was upregulated in adult zebrafish infected with Staphylococcus aureus with the highest expression level at 12 h after challenge. Recombinant zITLN2 protein expressed in E. coli was able to agglutinate both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria to similar degrees in a calcium-dependent manner. Furthermore, recombinant zITLN2 bound lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan (PGN) comparably. Our work on zITLN2 provided further information to understand functions of this new family of lectins and the innate immunity in vertebrates.

Involvement of a LysM and putative peptidoglycan-binding domain-containing protein in the antibacterial immune response of kuruma shrimp Marsupenaeus japonicus

Lysin motif (LysM) is a peptidoglycan and chitin-binding motif with multiple functions in bacteria, plants, and animals. In this study, a novel LysM and putative peptidoglycan-binding domain-containing protein was cloned from kuruma shrimp (Marsupenaeus japonicus) and named as MjLPBP. The cDNA of MjLPBP contained 1010 nucleotides with an open reading frame of 834 nucleotides encoding a protein of 277 amino acid residues. The deduced protein contained a Lysin motif and a transmembrane region, with a calculated molecular mass of 31.54 kDa and isoelectric point of 8.61. MjLPBP was ubiquitously distributed in different tissues of shrimp at the mRNA level. Time course expression assay showed that MjLPBP was upregulated in hemocytes of shrimp challenged with Vibrio anguillarum or Staphylococcus aureus. MjLPBP was also upregulated in hepatopancreas after white spot syndrome virus and bacteria challenge. The recombinant protein of MjLPBP could bind to some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeast. Further study found that rMjLPBP bound to bacterial cell wall components, including peptidoglycans, lipoteichoic acid, lipopolysaccharide, and chitin. The induction of several antimicrobial peptide genes and phagocytosis-related gene, such as anti-lipopolysaccharide factors and myosin, was depressed after knockdown of MjLPBP. MjLPBP could facilitate V. anguillarum clearance in vivo. All the results indicated that MjLPBP might play an important role in the innate immunity of shrimp.

Cloning and characterization of two different L-type lectin genes from the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis

L-type lectins contain a leguminous lectin domain and bind to high-mannose type oligosaccharides. In the secretory pathway, L-type lectins play crucial functions in the trafficking, sorting, and targeting of maturing glycoproteins. This study identified two novel L-type lectins, designated as EsERGIC-53 and EsVIP36, from the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis. The complete nucleotide sequence of ERGIC-53 cDNA was 1955 bp, containing a 1506 bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative protein of 501 deduced amino acids. The full-length cDNA of VIP36 was 3474 bp with a 984 bp ORF encoding a 327-amino acid peptide. The deduced ERGIC-53 and VIP36 proteins contained a putative signal peptide and an L-type lectin-like domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed that ERGIC-53 and VIP36 belonged to different clades of L-type lectin family. Reverse transcription PCR showed that ERGIC-53 and VIP36 were expressed in all tested tissues. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis revealed that ERGIC-53 and VIP36 transcripts in hepatopancreas were significantly induced at various time points after infection with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peptidoglycan (PGN), Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Aeromonas hydrophila. A bacterium-binding experiment showed that both ERGIC-53 and VIP36 could bind to different microbes. Sugar binding assay revealed that these lectins could also bind to the glycoconjugates of bacteria surface, such as LPS, PGN, d-Mannose, and N-Acetyl-d-mannosamine. Moreover, these two L-type lectins agglutinated bacteria in a calcium-dependent manner, and both exerted the ability of facilitating the clearance of injected bacteria V. parahaemolyticus in the crab. Our results suggested that ERGIC-53 and VIP36 functioned as pattern recognition receptors in the immune system of E. sinensis.

Characterization of a lectin from the craysfish Cherax quadricarinatus hemolymph and its effect on hemocytes

Lectins participate in the immune mechanisms of crustaceans. They have been considered as humoral receptors for pathogen-associated molecular patterns; however, some reports suggest that lectins could regulate crustacean cellular functions. In the present study, we purified and characterized a serum lectin (CqL) from the hemolymph of Cherax quadricarinatus by affinity chromatography and determined its participation in the regulation of hemocytes' oxidative burst. CqL is a 290-kDa lectin in native form, constituted by 108, 80, and 29-kDa subunits. It is mainly composed of glycine, alanine, and a minor proportion of methionine and histidine. It showed no carbohydrates in its structure. CqL is composed of several isoforms, as determined by 2D-electrophoresis, and shows no homology with any crustacean protein as determined by Lc/Ms mass spectrometry. CqL agglutinated mainly rat and rabbit erythrocytes and showed a broad specificity for monosaccharides such as galactose, glucose, and sialic acid, as well as for glycoproteins, such as porcine stomach and bovine submaxillary mucin and fetuin. It is a Mn(2+)-dependent lectin. CqL recognized 8% of crayfish granular hemocytes and increased 4.2-fold the production of hemocytes' superoxide anion in vitro assays when compared with non-treated hemocytes. This effect showed the same specificity for carbohydrates as hemagglutination; moreover, superoxide dismutase and diphenyleneiodonium chloride were effective inhibitors of CqL oxidative-activation. The CqL homoreceptor is a 120-kDa glycoprotein identified in the hemocytes lysate. Our results suggest that CqL participates actively in the regulation of the generation of superoxide anions in hemocytes using NADPH-dependent mechanisms.

A novel Toll like receptor with two TIR domains (HcToll-2) is involved in regulation of antimicrobial peptide gene expression of Hyriopsis cumingii

Animal Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are involved in innate immunity. Toll proteins are generally transmembrane proteins. In this study, an atypical Toll-like receptor (HcToll-2) was identified from the triangle-shell pearl mussel Hyriopsis cumingii, which belongs to phylum Mollusca. Unlike the typical Toll like receptors with extracellular leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), transmembrane, and intracellular Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domains, HcToll-2 has two homologous TIR domains located at the C-terminal (designated as HcTIR1 and HcTIR2) and lacks a transmembrane domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed that HcTIR1 was clustered with TIR of sea anemone Toll, and HcTIR2 was clustered with TIR of Drosophila Toll. HcToll-2 mRNA could be detected in the hepatopancreas and was upregulated after challenge with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Recombinant HcLRR protein with GST tag could bind to bacteria and also to LPS and PGN. Over-expression of both HcTIR1 and HcTIR2 induced drosomycin genes in Drosophila S2 cells. RNAi analysis showed that HcToll-2 was required for the expression of theromacin, which is a cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptide (AMP) gene. This research is the first report of an atypical Toll-like receptor HcToll-2 involved in antibacterial immunity through induction of AMP expression.

Sequence-based appraisal of the genes encoding neck and carbohydrate recognition domain of conglutinin in blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) and goat (Capra hircus)

Conglutinin, a collagenous C-type lectin, acts as soluble pattern recognition receptor (PRR) in recognition of pathogens. In the present study, genes encoding neck and carbohydrate recognition domain (NCRD) of conglutinin in goat and blackbuck were amplified, cloned, and sequenced. The obtained 488 bp ORFs encoding NCRD were submitted to NCBI with accession numbers KC505182 and KC505183. Both nucleotide and predicted amino acid sequences were analysed with sequences of other ruminants retrieved from NCBI GenBank using DNAstar and Megalign5.2 software. Sequence analysis revealed maximum similarity of blackbuck sequence with wild ruminants like nilgai and buffalo, whereas goat sequence displayed maximum similarity with sheep sequence at both nucleotide and amino acid level. Phylogenetic analysis further indicated clear divergence of wild ruminants from the domestic ruminants in separate clusters. The predicted secondary structures of NCRD protein in goat and blackbuck using SWISSMODEL ProtParam online software were found to possess 6 beta-sheets and 3 alpha-helices which are identical to the result obtained in case of sheep, cattle, buffalo, and nilgai. However, quaternary structure in goat, sheep, and cattle was found to differ from that of buffalo, nilgai, and blackbuck, suggesting a probable variation in the efficiency of antimicrobial activity among wild and domestic ruminants.

Cloning and characterization of two different ficolins from the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Ficolins, a kind of lectin containing collagen-like and fibrinogen-related domains (FReDs, also known as FBG or FREP), are involved in the first line of host defense against pathogens. In this study, two ficolins, namely, MrFico1 and MrFico2, from the giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii were identified. In contrast to other ficolins, these two ficolins have no collagen-like domain, but such ficolins contain a coiled region and a FReD domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MrFico1 and MrFico2, together with two ficolin-like proteins from Pacifastacus leniusculus, belonged to one group. Quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) showed that both MrFico1 and MrFico2 were expressed in hepatopancreas, stomach and intestine, with the highest expression in stomach for MrFico1, compared to the highest expression in hepatopancreas for MrFico2. qRT-PCR analysis also showed that MrFico1 was obviously upregulated upon Vibrio anguillarium challenge, while MrFico2 was upregulated after challenged by V. anguillarium or white spot syndrome virus. Bacterium-binding experiment showed that MrFico1 and MrFico2 could bind to different microbes, and sugar-binding assay revealed that these two ficolins could also bind to lipopolysaccharide and peptidoglycan, the glycoconjugates of bacteria surface. Moreover, these two ficolins could agglutinate bacteria in a calcium-dependent manner, and the results of bacteria clearance experiment showed that both ficolins could facilitate the clearance of injected bacteria in the prawn. Our results suggested that MrFico1 and MrFico2 may function as pattern-recognition receptors in the immune system of M. rosenbergii.

Function of two novel single-CRD containing C-type lectins in innate immunity from Eriocheir sinensis

C-type lectin is one of the pattern-recognition proteins of the non-self-innate immune system in invertebrates. In this study, two novel C-type lectin cDNAs (EsCTL1 and EsCTL2) of Eriocheir sinensis were cloned and characterized. EsCTL1 has 169 amino acids, whereas EsCTL2 has 164 amino acids. These two lectins contain one carbohydrate-recognition domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed that EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 were not clustered with other reported lectins from crabs. EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 were expressed only in the hepatopancreas, as detected by real-time PCR. When healthy crabs were challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peptidoglycan (PGN), Staphylococcus aureus, or Aeromonas hydrophila, the expression levels of EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 were significantly regulated. The recombinant EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 can agglutinate both Gram-positive (S. aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Vibrio parahaemolyticus and A. hydrophila) in a Ca2+ -dependent manner. The recombinant EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 can directly bind to LPS and PGN and to all tested microorganisms (S. aureus, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Vibrio natriegens, V. parahaemolyticus, and A. hydrophila). Furthermore, rEsCTL1 and rEsCTL2 may facilitate the clearance of V. parahaemolyticus in vivo. These results suggest that EsCTL1 and EsCTL2 may have important roles in the anti-bacterial immunity of Chinese mitten crab.

A C-type lectin could selectively facilitate bacteria clearance in red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

C-type lectins function as pattern recognition receptors and play important roles in the innate immune system of crustaceans. In this study, we reported a new CTL gene (designated as PcLec5) from red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. PcLec5 was mainly distributed in hepatopancreas, gills and intestine, and the PcLec5 transcripts were up-regulated in all the three tissues after challenge with bacteria Vibrio anguillarum. For further functional analyses, PcLec5 was recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli and anti-PcLec5 polyclonal antiserum was prepared. The results of bacteria binding assay revealed that PcLec5 could selectively bind to 5 of 9 kinds of bacteria we used and had a tendency to bind to Gram-negative bacteria. Sugar binding assay showed that PcLec5 could bind to peptidoglycan, lipoteichoic acid and lipopolysaccharide, with the highest affinity to LPS. Furthermore, bacteria-clearance experiment showed PcLec5 could selectively facilitate the clearance of injected bacteria in crayfish, and the bacteria-clearance facilitating spectrum of PcLec5 was totally in agreement with its bacteria binding spectrum. These results suggested PcLec5 function as a pattern recognition receptor in crayfish immune system and had certain selectivity on bacteria pathogens.

Overexpression of a C-type lectin enhances bacterial resistance in red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii

C-type lectins play important roles in the innate immune system of crustaceans. In this study, a novel C-type lectin gene, designated as PcLec4, was obtained from the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that PcLec4 is mainly expressed in the crayfish hepatopancreas and intestine, and the PcLec4 mRNA expression is upregulated after challenged with the bacteria Vibrio anguillarum. PcLec4 was recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli and anti-PcLec4 polyclonal antiserum was prepared. Binding experiments revealed that the recombinant PcLec4 binds to various bacteria and polysaccharides on the bacterial surface, which suggests that PcLec4 recognizes bacterial pathogens. Overexpression of PcLec4 in crayfish using the pIeLec4 vector was performed. The results show that the crayfish overexpressing PcLec4 eliminate injected V. anguillarum more quickly than the control, which suggests that PcLec4 elicits further immune response for removing invading bacteria. The results of the survival experiment confirmed the function of PcLec4 in resisting V. anguillarum because PcLec4 overexpression in crayfish significantly increased the crayfish survival rate. These results reveal that PcLec4 has an important role in the antibacterial immunity of crayfish, and in vivo PcLec4 overexpression might be used as a disease control strategy in aquiculture.

Characterization and comparative analyses of two amphioxus intelectins involved in the innate immune response

Intelectin is a new type of soluble galactofuranose-binding lectin involved in innate immunity. Here we report another intelectin homolog, AmphiITLN239631, obtained from amphioxus, the transitional form between vertebrates and invertebrates. AmphiITLN239631 encoded 396 amino acids with a highly conserved fibrinogen-related domain (FReD), An intelectin domain and a putative Collagen domain. AmphiITLN239631 was ubiquitously expressed in all tissues we tested and transcripts in skin increased after challenge of both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, although in different levels. Recombinant AmphiITLN239631 expressed in E. coli system could agglutinate both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in a calcium independent manner. Furthermore, recombinant protein was able to bind to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and peptidoglycan (PGN), the major components of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria cell walls, respectively. We also compared AmphiITLN239631 with previously identified AmphiITLN71469 and found that their tissue specificities, expression patterns upon bacteria challenge, and polysaccharide-binding affinities etc vary considerably. Our results could provide insight into the evolution and function of the intelectin family.

PcLT, a novel C-type lectin from Procambarus clarkii, is involved in the innate defense against Vibrio alginolyticus and WSSV

Lectins play important roles in the innate immunity. In this work, a C-type lectin, PcLT, was obtained from Procambarus clarkii which contained a carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) with the ability to bind to Vibrio alginolyticus and white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). RT-PCR and qRT-PCR analyses demonstrated PcLT was specifically expressed in the hepatopancreas and the mRNA was markedly upregulated by V. alginolyticus and WSSV challenge, although a slight difference in timing was observed. The study also revealed upregulation of the mRNA expression and activity of immunological factors, peroxinectin, phenoloxidase, and superoxide dismutase in hemolymph in response to recombinant PcLT (rPcLT). Moreover, rPcLT also enhanced the phagocytosis, facilitated the subsequent clearance of V. alginolyticus and prolonged the survival of WSSV-infected shrimp. These results suggested that PcLT not only served as a pathogen recognition receptor (PRR), but also functioned as an immune modulator, participating in host defense against invaders.

Immune response of four dual-CRD C-type lectins to microbial challenges in giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii

C-type lectins (CTLs) are believed to play important roles in the innate immunity of invertebrates and serve as pattern recognition receptors, opsonins, or effector molecules. In this study, the full-lengths cDNA of 4 CTL genes from giant freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii were cloned and designated as MrLec1, MrLec2, MrLec3, and MrLec4. All of these 4 lectin cDNAs encode proteins with 2 carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs). While MrLec1, MrLec3, and MrLec4 had signal peptides, no signal peptide was detected in MrLec2. Two carbohydrate recognition motifs within two CRDs of each lectin were predicted (QPE, EPG in MrLec1; EPT, EPA in MrLec2; QPT, NPR in MrLec3; KPN, EPD in MrLec4). Phylogenetic analysis showed that MrLec4 belongs to group A whereas MrLec1, MrLec2, and MrLec3 belong to group B. Positive selection in dual-CRD lectins suggested their probable roles in innate immunity, and positively selected induced amino acid diversity of lectins may confer their ability to recognize a broad range of microbes. The qRT-PCR analysis in adult prawns showed that MrLec1 is mainly expressed in the hepatopancreas, gills, and stomach, MrLec2 and MrLec4 are mainly distributed in the hepatopancreas, and MrLec3 is mainly expressed in the hepatopancreas and stomach. Time-course analysis using qRT-PCR showed that MrLec1 to MrLec4 are all upregulated by the Vibrio anguillarum challenge. MrLec1 is upregulated after 2, 12, and 24 h of white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge. The expression of MrLec2 increases after 12 and 24 h of WSSV challenge, and the transcript of MrLec3 and MrLec4 are downregulated after 2 h of WSSV challenge. The results suggest the potential roles of dual-CRD lectins in the innate immunity of M. rosenbergii.