Ontogeny of human mannan-binding protein, a lectin of the innate immune system.
Mannan-binding protein (MBP) is a member of the collectins. These lectins are composed of polypeptide chains which contains a collagen-like region and a calcium dependent carbohydrate recognition domain (named a C-type CRD). MBP binds via the CRD to carbohydrate structures on microorganisms. MBP can activate the complement system when bound to carbohydrate. MBP is thus thought to play a role in the defence against microorganisms. The present report describes the ontogeny of MBP. The level of MBP increase during the first 3 months of life, at which time a stable level is reached, comparable to that seen in adults. On average, the level of MBP at term was 37% of the post 3-month level. Measurements on infants born prematurely showed a 3-fold increase in MBP concentration from the time of birth at around 30 weeks from conception to the 10th week of life.
Thiel
S
S
Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Aarhus, Denmark.
Bjerke
T
T
Hansen
D
D
Poulsen
L K
LK
Schiøtz
P O
PO
Jensenius
J C
JC
D002352:Carrier Proteins / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology*; D037222:Collectins; D005312:Fetal Blood; D006801:Humans; D007112:Immunity, Maternally-Acquired; D007223:Infant; D037102:Lectins / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000097:blood*; D008351:Mannans / Q000097:blood*
D002352:Carrier Proteins; D037222:Collectins; D037102:Lectins; D008351:Mannans