Differential binding characteristics and applications of dGalβ1→3 dGalNAc specific lectins

The binding properties of Arachis hypogaea (PNA), Bauhinia vurpurea alba (BPL), Maclura pomifera (MPL) and Sophora japonica (SJL) lectins were studied by quantitative precipitin and precipitin inhibition assays, demonstrating them to be most specific for dGalβ1→3 dGalNAc residues. Additionally, each lectin had its own binding characteristic such as different binding abilities to dGalβ1→4 dGlcNAc or dGalβ1→3 dGlcNAcβ1→linked oligosaccharides, and/or dGalNAcα1→linked to the Ser or Thr of the protein moiety. These differential binding characteristics can be used for investigating fine differences of the carbohydrate structure of the glycoconjugates, especially those having dGalβ1→3 dGalNAc residues as terminal non-reducing ends.