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GSL I is a family of glycoproteins with molecular weights of approximately 115,000. There are two types of subunits, termed “A” and “B”, with slightly different molecular weights. These subunits combine to form tetrameric structures, resulting in five isolectins. The “A”-rich lectin preferentially agglutinates blood group A erythrocytes and thus appears to be specific for a-N-acetylgalactosamine residues, while the “B”-rich lectin preferentially agglutinates blood group B cells and is specific for a-galactose residues. Our GSL I is a mixture of the five isolectins. Binding appears to require divalent cations such as calcium and magnesium. GSL I has been reported to bind several glycoproteins including laminin.
This biotinylated lectin conjugate is prepared from affinity-purified lectin and is optimally labeled with biotin. Essentially free of inactive lectin conjugate and containing no free biotin, this biotinylated lectin provides an ideal intermediate for examining glycoconjugates using the Biotin-Avidin System. First the biotin-labeled lectin is added, followed by the VECTASTAIN® ABC Reagent, Avidin D conjugate, or streptavidin derivative. Another possible application is in the isolation of lymphokines and other products of mitogenic stimulation. |