Lectins are a diverse group of proteins or glycoproteins found in plants, animals, and microorganisms that have the ability to bind to specific carbohydrate molecules. These carbohydrate-binding proteins play various roles in biological processes, including cell-cell interactions, cell signaling, host-pathogen interactions, and immune responses.
In plants, lectins are often involved in defense mechanisms against predators and pathogens, as well as in symbiotic interactions with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. In animals, lectins are found in various tissues and organs and participate in processes such as cell adhesion, immune system modulation, and recognition of foreign invaders.
The carbohydrate-binding specificity of lectins can vary widely, allowing them to recognize specific sugar structures on the surface of cells or pathogens. Lectins are valuable tools in laboratory research, diagnostics, and biotechnology applications, including the purification and detection of glycoproteins and glycolipids.