Mistletoe lectin and their A and B chains

Journal/Book: Oncology 43: suppl. 1, 23-34. 1986;

Abstract: Mistletoe lectins are of high biological activity. The mistletoe lectinI (ML I) is a naturally occurring conjugate of an enzyme (A chain) and alectin (B chain). Its cytotoxicity is caused by inhibiting the proteinsynthesis on the ribosomal level. Prominent properties of the A chainare mitogenicity and inhibition of the protein synthesis in cell-freesystems. The A chain is also a candidate for the construction ofimmunotoxins. The B chain as well as the intact lectins activatemacrophages and release lymphocytes. They both inhibit theallergen-induced histamine release from leukocytes and thecollagen-induced serotonin release from platelets. It cannot be excludedthat the combination of selectively cytotoxic and immunopotentiatingproperties of mistletoe lectins and their chains are decisive for thetherapeutic effects of mistletoe preparations. Author.

Keyword(s): ANIMAL

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