Out-licensing

Tachypleus Plasma Lectins for Detection and Removal of Endotoxin

Introduction/Background

TPL-1 and -2 (Tachypleus Plasma Lectin-1 and -2) from the hemolymph of Tachypleus tridentatus, were previously purified by using Sepharose and LPS affinity column, respectively and their encoding genes were cloned.

Aims/Hypothesis

Novel methods for producing TPL-1 and –2 are required.

Research

In the present study, TPL-1 and -2 were produced using yeast and their recombinant proteins secreted into media were purified and characterized. The proteins show specific PGN (peptidoglycan) and LPS (lipopolysaccharide) binding activity, suggesting their role of trapping gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, respectively, in innate immunity. These two plasma lectins with different ligand specificity can be used for detection and discrimination of bacteria and their cell wall components as well as removal of endotoxin.

Conclusion

This research has applications in the detection and discrimination of bacteria and their cell wall components as well as removal of endotoxin and also in the therapy of septic shock.

Relevance/Opportunity

Please enquire regarding licensing or codevelopment partnerships quoting reference no. 11T-940223.

Preclinical