MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Developmental and Comparative Immunology' source. Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:56:20 +0100 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19409926&dopt=Abstract Authors: Li H, Toubiana M, Monfort P, Roch P Several bivalves, including mussels, suffered from mortalities particularly in summer. To look for the possible effect of environmental parameters on immune capacities, Mytilus galloprovincialis were collected monthly from August 2005 to July 2008 from the Palavas Laguna, French Mediterranean coast. Q-PCR was used to quantify the expression of three antimicrobial peptide genes (defensin, mytilin B and myticin B), in addition to lysozyme and HSP70. House keeping gene was 28S rRNA. Defensin, myticin B and lysozyme appeared more expressed in spring-summer than in winter. In contrast, HSP70 expression was higher in winter. Statistical studies using principal component analysis (PCA) and multiple regression models revealed positive influence of t... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529023 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:04:08 +0100 2529023 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19414031&dopt=Abstract In this study, a full-length cDNA of a sigma class GST (abGSTsigma) (GenBank accession number EF546619) from variously colored abalone (Haliotis diversicolor) was identified. It was 1328bp containing an open reading frame of 624bp, encoding 208 amino acid residues with a predicted protein molecular weight of 23.67kDa and an estimated pI of 5.67. Sequence analysis showed that the predicted protein sequence of abGSTsigma cDNA contained the conserved domain of the GST_N_Sigma_like (PSSM: cd03039) and GST_C_Sigma_like (PSSM: cd03192). Alignment analysis demonstrated that the abGSTsigma of H. diversicolor was in a branch position with other known class sigma GSTs from different organisms. The abGSTsigma mRNA was distributed in multiple tissues tested and was highly demonstrated in the gill and ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529022 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:04:04 +0100 2529022 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19414032&dopt=Abstract Authors: Sha Z, Abernathy JW, Wang S, Li P, Kucuktas H, Liu H, Peatman E, Liu Z The NLRs (nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing family receptors) are a recently identified family of pattern recognition receptors in vertebrates. Several subfamilies of NLRs have been characterized in human, mouse, and zebrafish, but studies of NLRs in other species, especially teleost species, have been lacking. Here we report characterization of five NLRs from channel catfish: NOD1, NOD2, NLRC3, NLRC5, and NLRX1. Structural analysis indicated that the genes were organized in a similar fashion as in the mammals and in zebrafish. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that they were orthologous to the NOD-like subfamily of NLRs. All five NOD-like genes exist as a single copy gene in the ca... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529021 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:04:01 +0100 2529021 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19416737&dopt=Abstract Authors: Labbé P, McTaggart SJ, Little TJ NO (nitric oxide) is a highly reactive free radical gas thought to play a major role in the invertebrate immune response by harming pathogens and limiting their growth. Here we report on studies of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) genes in the crustacean Daphnia, one of the few non-insect arthropod models used to study host-pathogen interactions. While the NOS gene is found as a single copy in other invertebrates, we found two copies (NOS1 and NOS2), which a phylogenetic reconstruction showed to be the result of an ancient duplication event. Both genes bear features commonly found in invertebrate NOS, however, the two genes differ in their rate of evolution, intraspecific polymorphism and expression level. We tested whether the more rapid evolu... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529019 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:55 +0100 2529019 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19422846&dopt=Abstract Authors: Skjaeveland I, Iliev DB, Strandskog G, Jørgensen JB Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR 8) belongs to a subgroup of the TLR family that recognizes nucleic acids and that is involved in the protection against viruses. In mammals, TLR7 and 8 have been characterized as receptors for viral and synthetic single-stranded RNA. Here we describe the cloning of a TLR8 homolog in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and its proximal adaptor protein MyD88. The mRNA expression of SsTLR8 was tissue-restricted and its highest level was detected in the spleen while SsMyD88 was expressed in all of the tested organs. SsTLR8 and SsMyD88 mRNAs were up-regulated in TO cells treated with recombinant IFN alpha1 and IFN gamma. In vivo, the expression of SsTLR8 was not significantly affected following challenge w... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529018 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:52 +0100 2529018 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428480&dopt=Abstract This study was designed as a first step towards a better knowledge of fish macrophages and their fate after different types of apoptotic insults. PMID: 19428480 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529017 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:49 +0100 2529017 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428481&dopt=Abstract Authors: Labreuche Y, O'Leary NA, de la Vega E, Veloso A, Gross PS, Chapman RW, Browdy CL, Warr GW Injection of non-specific dsRNA initiates a broad-spectrum innate antiviral immune response in the Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, however, the receptor involved in recognition of this by-product of viral infections remains unknown. In vertebrates, dsRNA sensing is mediated by a class of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and results in activation of the interferon system. Because a TLR (lToll) was recently characterized in L. vannamei, we investigated its potential role in dsRNA recognition. We showed that injection of non-specific RNA duplexes did not modify lToll gene expression. A reverse genetic approach was therefore implemented to study its role in vivo. Silencing of lToll did ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529016 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:46 +0100 2529016 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428482&dopt=Abstract In this study, a cDNA encoding a proPO activating enzyme (PPAE) from the black tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon, designated as PmPPAE1, was cloned and characterized. The full-length cDNA contains an open reading frame (ORF) of 1392bp encoding a predicted protein of 463 amino acids including an 18 amino acid signal peptide. The PmPPAE1 protein exhibits a characteristic sequence structure of clip-SPs consisting of the clip domain at the N-terminus and a SP domain at the C-terminus. Sequence analysis showed that PmPPAE1 exhibited the highest amino acid sequence similarity (70%) to a PPAE of the crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus. PmPPAE1 mRNA is abundantly expressed in hemocytes, and this is regulated after systemic Vibrio harveyi infection supporting that it is an immune-responsive gene. RNA in... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529015 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:44 +0100 2529015 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428483&dopt=Abstract Authors: Collet B, Ganne G, Bird S, Collins CM Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT)-2 is a molecule involved in the type I interferon (IFN) signalling pathway. The full length cDNA sequence of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) ssSTAT2 was determined and phylogenetic analysis of the amino acid sequence grouped this novel salmon gene to the STAT2 clade. This represents the first fish STAT2 report. The gene encodes for a 802 aa polypeptide that has 38% identity to the human or murine STAT2. The expression was monitored by qPCR in the kidney of animals over the time of infection with the Infectious Salmon Anaemia Virus (ISAV) and in TO cells infected with Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus (IPNV) or with the Salmon Alphavirus (SAV). SAV and ISAV induced an approximate 10-f... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529014 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:41 +0100 2529014 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428484&dopt=Abstract In this study we demonstrate that not only epithelial cells but also gland cells are critically involved in Hydra's innate host defense by producing a kazal-type serine protease inhibitor, kazal2, that has potent in vitro bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The discovery of an antimicrobial serine protease inhibitor in Hydra may shed new light on the mechanisms of host defense early in metazoan evolution, and promises to open new avenues for the development of potent anti-staphylococcal compounds. PMID: 19428484 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529013 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:39 +0100 2529013 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428485&dopt=Abstract In this study, an IL-8 homologue has been cloned and identified from a reptile, Chinese soft-shelled turtle for the first time. The full-length cDNA of turtle IL-8 was 1188bp and contained a 312bp open reading frame (ORF) coding for a protein of 104 amino acids. The chemokine CXC domain, which contained Glu-Leu-Arg (ELR) motif and four cysteine residues, was well conserved in turtle IL-8. The 4924bp genomic DNA of turtle IL-8 contained four exons and three introns. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the amino acid sequence of turtle IL-8 clustered together with birds. RT-PCR analysis showed that turtle IL-8 mRNA was constitutively expressed liver, spleen, kidney, heart, blood and intestine tissues of control turtles. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis further indicated that the turtle IL-8... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529012 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:36 +0100 2529012 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428486&dopt=Abstract Authors: Neves JV, Wilson JM, Rodrigues PN Iron is essential for growth and survival, but it is also toxic when in excess. Thus, there is a tight regulation of iron that is accomplished by the interaction of several genes including the iron transporter transferrin and iron storage protein ferritin. These genes are also known to be involved in response to infection. The aim of this study was to understand the role of transferrin and ferritin in infection and iron metabolism in fish. Thus, sea bass transferrin and ferritin H cDNAs were isolated from liver, cloned and characterized. Transferrin constitutive expression was found to be highest in the liver, but also with significant expression in the brain, particularly in the highly vascularized region connecting the inferior lobe of the h... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529011 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:34 +0100 2529011 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428487&dopt=Abstract Authors: Mamali I, Lamprou I, Karagiannis F, Karakantza M, Lampropoulou M, Marmaras VJ We have recently reported that the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and its downstream targets upon pathogen challenge regulate phagocytosis in medfly haemocytes. The goal of this study was to further explore the signalling pathway underlying the process of phagocytosis. In particular, in this report, we used flow cytometry, RNA interference, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot and immunoprecipitation analysis to demonstrate the haemocyte surface receptor, through which the extracellular signals in response to bacteria are transmitted intracellularly. The presented data demonstrate the expression of a beta integrin subunit in the surface of medfly haemocytes that transmits signal... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529010 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:31 +0100 2529010 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428488&dopt=Abstract Authors: Gai Y, Zhao J, Song L, Wang L, Qiu L, Ning X, Zheng X, Zhang Y, Mu C, Zhang Y, Li L Recently, beta-thymosin-like proteins with multiple thymosin domains (defined as thymosin-repeated proteins) have been identified from invertebrate. In the present study, the cDNAs of two thymosin-repeated proteins (designated EsTRP1 and EsTRP2) were cloned from Chinese mitten crab by expressed sequence tags (EST) techniques. BLAST analysis presented three and two thymosin domains in EsTRP1 and EsTRP2, respectively, with the identities amongst the five domains varying from 47% to 100%. Both EsTRP1 and EsTRP2 shared high similarities with previously identified vertebrate beta-thymosins and invertebrate thymosin-repeated proteins (TRPs) with the identities ranging from 43% to 78%, indicating that... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529009 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:29 +0100 2529009 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19428489&dopt=Abstract Authors: Macqueen D PMID: 19428489 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529008 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:27 +0100 2529008 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19442686&dopt=Abstract Authors: van Haarlem DA, van Kooten PJ, Rothwell L, Kaiser P, Vervelde L Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a central regulator of T cell survival and homeostasis and its expression is indicative for naïve and memory T cells. We cloned chicken IL-7Ralpha (CHIL-7Ralpha) and determined its expression profile in chicken lymphocyte subpopulations. The predicted protein sequence contained 460 amino acids. The extracellular domain exhibited features typical of a type I cytokine receptor; a fibronectin type III domain and the GXWSXWS motif were conserved. ChIL-7Ralpha mRNA is highly expressed in lymphoid organs and in CD4+, CD8alpha+ and CD8beta+ cells. A monoclonal antibody was generated and expression of the protein investigated. ChIL-7Ralpha was expressed on CD4+ and CD8alpha+, but not CD8beta+,... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529007 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:24 +0100 2529007 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19442687&dopt=Abstract Authors: Tallmadge RL, McLaughlin K, Secor E, Ruano D, Matychak MB, Flaminio MJ Many features of the equine immune system develop during fetal life, yet the naïve or immature immune state of the neonate renders the foal uniquely susceptible to particular pathogens. RT-PCR and immunohistochemical experiments investigated the progressive expression of developmental B cell markers and immunoglobulins in lymphoid tissues from equine fetus, pre-suckle neonate, foal, and adult horses. Serum IgM, IgG isotype, and IgA concentrations were also quantified in pre-suckle foals and adult horses. The expression of essential B cell genes suggests active development and gene recombination during equine gestation, including immunoglobulin isotype switching. The corresponding production of IgM and ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529006 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:22 +0100 2529006 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19446578&dopt=Abstract Authors: Ma H, Wang J, Wang B, Zhao Y, Yang C We have cloned and characterized a cDNA encoding a putative ETS transcription factor, designated Cf-ets. The Cf-ets encodes a 406 amino acid protein containing a conserved ETS domain and a Pointed domain. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Cf-ets belongs to the ESE group of ETS transcription factor family. Real-time PCR analysis of Cf-ets expression in adult sea scallop tissues revealed that Cf-ets was expressed mainly in gill and hemocytes, in a constitutive manner. Cf-ets mRNA level in hemocytes increased drastically after microbial challenge indicated its indispensable role in the anti-infection process. Simultaneously, the circulating hemocyte number decreased. In mammals, most ETS transcription factors play indispensable roles in bloo... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529005 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:20 +0100 2529005 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19447130&dopt=Abstract Authors: Wang XW, Zhang XW, Xu WT, Zhao XF, Wang JX C-type lectins play important roles in innate immunity of invertebrates. In the present study, we report a novel C-type lectin, named FcLec4, from the Chinese white shrimp Fenneropenaeus chinensis. FcLec4 contains a single carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) with a putative signal peptide. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that FcLec4 was distant from most reported C-type lectins from shrimps. The expression of FcLec4 increased at both mRNA and protein level after stimulation of Vibrio anguillarum. Recombinant FcLec4 could agglutinate both Gram-positive and -negative bacteria in the presence of calcium. The recombinant protein could bind to peptidoglycan and selectively bind to microorganisms. Interestingly, the tight binding of recom... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529004 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:18 +0100 2529004 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454330&dopt=Abstract This study provides a N. vectensis CTL database that can be used for further research on the evolution of cnidarian CTLs and the role of CTLs in cnidarian innate immunity. PMID: 19454330 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529002 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:13 +0100 2529002 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454331&dopt=Abstract Authors: Gulii V, Dunphy GB, Mandato CA Invertebrate intracellular hemocyte signaling pathways affecting cellular-antigen responses, although defined for molluscs and some arthropods including dipteran insects, is less known for lepidopterans. Hemocytic-antigen responses of the arboreal pest lepidopteran Malacosoma disstria are linked to cAMP-dependent protein kinase A implicating cAMP in cellular hemocyte immune responses. The purpose in the present study was to determine intracellular cAMP effects on larval M. disstria hemocytes adhering to slides and bacteria. Altering adenylate cyclase and phosphodiesterase activities as well as cAMP levels in vitro and in vivo changed hemocyte responses to antigens. Quiescent hemocytes had high cAMP levels due to adenylate cyclase activity and pos... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529000 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:11 +0100 2529000 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454332&dopt=Abstract Authors: Ellis BC, Gattoni-Celli S, Mancia A, Kindy MS The Atlantic bottlenose dolphin has attracted attention due to the evident impact that environmental stressors have taken on its health. In order to better understand the mechanisms linking environmental health with dolphin health, we have established cell cultures from dolphin skin as in vitro tools for molecular evaluations. The vitamin D3 pathway is one mechanism of interest because of its well established chemopreventative and immunomodulatory properties in terrestrial mammals. On the other hand, little is known of the physiological role of this molecule in aquatic animals. 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3), the bioactive and hormonal form of vitamin D3, exerts its biological function by binding to the vitamin D receptor (VDR),... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528997 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:05 +0100 2528997 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454333&dopt=Abstract Authors: Esteves E, Fogaça AC, Maldonado R, Silva FD, Manso PP, Pelajo-Machado M, Valle D, Daffre S Arthropods display different mechanisms to protect themselves against infections, among which antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) play an important role, acting directly against invader pathogens. We have detected several factors with inhibitory activity against Candida albicans and Micrococcus luteus on the surface and in homogenate of eggs of the tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. One of the anti-M. luteus factors of the egg homogenate was isolated to homogeneity. Analysis by electrospray mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) revealed that it corresponds to microplusin, an AMP previously isolated from the cell-free hemolymph of R. (B.) microplus. Reverse transcription (RT) quantitative poly... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528995 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:03:01 +0100 2528995 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454334&dopt=Abstract In this report, two putative IFN-gamma receptor chains were identified and sequenced in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and found to have many common characteristics with mammalian type II IFN receptor family members. The presented gene synteny analysis, phylogenetic tree analysis and ligand binding analysis all suggest that these molecules are the authentic IFNgammaRs in fish. They are widely expressed in tissues, with IFNgammaR1 typically more highly expressed than IFNgammaR2. Using the trout RTG-2 cell line it was possible to show that the individual chains could be differentially modulated, with rIFN-gamma and rIL-1beta down regulating IFNgammaR1 expression but up regulating IFNgammaR2 expression. Over-expression of the two receptor chains in RTG-2 cells revealed that the level of... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528992 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:02:56 +0100 2528992 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454335&dopt=Abstract Authors: Josková R, Silerová M, Procházková P, Bilej M Lysozyme is a widely distributed antimicrobial protein having specificity for cleaving the beta-(1,4)-glycosidic bond between N-acetylmuramic acid (NAM) and N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) of peptidoglycan of the bacterial cell walls and thus efficiently contributes to protection against infections caused mainly by Gram-positive bacteria. In the present study, we assembled a full-length cDNA of a novel invertebrate-type lysozyme from Eisenia andrei earthworm (EALys) by RT-PCR and RACE system. The primary structure of EALys shares high homology with other invertebrate lysozymes; however the highest, 72% identity, was shown for the destabilase I isolated from medicinal leech. Recombinant EALys expressed in Escherichi... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528989 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:02:51 +0100 2528989 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454336&dopt=Abstract In this study, eight class II B cDNA sequences were obtained from the Galápagos marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) which were divided into five locus groups, Amcr-DAB1 through -DAB5, based on similarities along most of the coding and noncoding portions of the transcribed gene. All marine iguana sequences were monophyletic with respect to class II genes from other vertebrates indicating that they originated from a common ancestral locus after squamates split from other reptiles. The beta-1 domain, which is involved in antigen binding, exhibited signatures of positive selection as well as interlocus gene conversion in both long and short tracts-a pattern also observed in birds and fish, but not in mammals. On the other hand, the beta-2 domain was divergent between gene groups, whic... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528986 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:02:46 +0100 2528986 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19454337&dopt=Abstract Authors: Yoshida T PMID: 19454337 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528983 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:02:42 +0100 2528983 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19539093&dopt=Abstract Authors: Derache C, Esnault E, Bonsergent C, Le Vern Y, Quéré P, Lalmanach AC beta-Defensins are important components of innate immunity in mucosal tissue, a major entry site for several pathogens. These small cationic peptides possess antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms including Salmonella. Two chicken inbred lines, 6 and 15I, diverge phenotypically with respect to levels of Salmonella Enteritidis intestinal carriage and to level of gene expression of two beta-defensins, AvBD1 and AvBD2. The cellular source of these two defensins in the intestinal tissue has not previously been explored. Therefore embryonic intestinal cells were isolated from both chicken lines. Primary intestinal cell cultures expressed epithelial specific markers (villin and E-cadherin) ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528937 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:01:33 +0100 2528937 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19539094&dopt=Abstract Authors: Cormican P, Lloyd AT, Downing T, Connell SJ, Bradley D, O'Farrelly C The Toll-Like receptor (TLR) pathway plays a core role in innate immunity and is maintained with remarkable consistency across all vertebrate species. Amidst this background of overall conservation, subtle differences in the components that make up this pathway may have important implications for species-specific defense against key pathogens. Here we employ a homology-based comparative method to characterize the TLR pathway in the recently sequenced chicken and zebra finch genomes, which represent two distantly related bird species. The key features of the TLR pathway are conserved in birds and mammals, although some clear differences exist. The TLR receptors show a pattern of gene duplication and gene loss ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528934 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:01:27 +0100 2528934 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19520110&dopt=Abstract Authors: Li F, Yan H, Wang D, Priya TA, Li S, Wang B, Zhang J, Xiang J Penaeid shrimp, as an invertebrate, relies on the innate immunity to oppose the microbial invaders. Antimicrobial peptides (AMP) are an integral component of the innate immune system in most organisms and function as an early first line of defense against pathogens, but the knowledge about the pathways to regulate the shrimp AMP gene expression is still absent up to date. In the current study, a Relish homolog (FcRelish) was cloned from Chinese shrimp Fenneropenaeus chinensis. The full length cDNA of FcRelish consists of 2157bp, including 1512bp open reading frame, encoding 505 amino acids. The predicted molecular weight of FcRelish is 57kDa, and the theoretical PI is 7.00. Spatial expression profiles showed that Fc... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528960 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528960 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19545586&dopt=Abstract This study addresses the biological function of CG18594, a Drosophila melanogaster phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein (PEBP) that we named PEBP1, by combining fly genetics, survival experiments and differential proteomics. We demonstrate that transgenic flies overexpressing PEBP1 are highly protected against bacterial infection due to the release of immunity-related proteins in their hemolymph. Apart from proteins that have been reported earlier to participate in insect immunity, we also identify proteins involved in metabolism and signaling, and, in addition, twelve (hypothetical) proteins with unknown function. This is the first report demonstrating an immune function for a Drosophila PEBP protein. PMID: 19545586 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Developmental and Co... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528924 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528924 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19540262&dopt=Abstract Authors: Terenius O, Popham HJ, Shelby KS Lepidopteran larvae are regularly infected by baculoviruses during feeding on infected plants. The differences in sensitivity to these infections can be substantial, even among closely related species. For example, the noctuids Cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa zea) and Tobacco budworm (Heliothis virescens), have a 1000-fold difference in sensitivity to Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) infection. Recent data were interpreted to indicate that the lepidopteran immunoglobulin protein, Hemolin, is synthesized upon viral injection and therefore to participate in anti-viral responses. To investigate whether Hemolin synthesis is affected by a natural viral infection, specific transcription in fat bodies and hemocytes of H. zea ... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528926 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528926 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19539644&dopt=Abstract Authors: Montero J, Chaves-Pozo E, Cuesta A, Tafalla C In the current study, we have determined the immune effects of the intramuscular injection of eukaryotic expression plasmids coding for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchusmykiss) CK5B, CK6 or CK7A CC chemokines (pCK5B, pCK6 and pCK7A) as a first step towards the establishment of their biological role. We have studied the levels of expression of several immune genes in the spleen and head kidney by real time PCR in comparison to the levels observed in animals injected with the empty plasmid. Concerning the levels of expression of these CC chemokines and the CXC chemokine, interleukin 8 (IL-8), each plasmid induced up-regulation on expression levels of its coded chemokine in the head kidney and spleen, but also affected the expression of oth... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528929 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528929 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19497335&dopt=Abstract Authors: Fagutao FF, Yasuike M, Santos MD, Ruangpan L, Sangrunggruang K, Tassanakajon A, Takahashi Y, Ueno R, Kondo H, Hirono I, Aoki T The intensification of shrimp farming systems has led to the spreading of a variety of bacterial and viral diseases that continue to plague the shrimp industry worldwide. Efforts to combat these pathogenic organisms include the use of immunostimulants, probiotics, vaccines and antibiotics. Although a few studies have already reported on the effects of various stimuli on shrimp, the effect of antibiotics, particularly on the changes in the shrimp transcriptomic profile have yet to be reported. Here we show that injecting shrimp with oxytetracycline and oxolinic acid alters the expression of genes in the black tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon, lymphoid orga... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528964 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528964 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527746&dopt=Abstract Authors: Kilpi MK, Atosuo JT, Lilius EM The interaction between bacterial cells and activated complement components as a kinetic biological event is described. The bacteriolytic activity of complement in human and fish serum was assayed by measuring the decrease of bioluminescence of Escherichia coli transformed with lux genes. From the kinetic curves, the bacteriolytic CB(50)- and AB(50)-units were derived at any desired time point. It was observed that these values were irregular but decreased as a function of incubation time, and reached equal values during prolonged incubation, suggesting that the difference between the classical and alternative pathway activity is kinetic. From the kinetic curves, entirely new parameters could be derived: rate of the activation phase, rate of kill... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528956 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528956 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527747&dopt=Abstract Authors: Schokker D, Hoekman AJ, Smits MA, Rebel JM Jejunal development occurs in a spatio-temporal pattern and is characterized by morphological and functional changes. To investigate jejunal development at the transcriptomic level, we performed microarray studies in 1-21 day-old chickens. Nine gene clusters were identified, each with a specific gene expression pattern. Subsequently, groups of genes with similar functions could be identified. Genes involved in morphological and functional development were highly expressed immediately after hatch with declining expression patterns afterwards. Immunological development can be roughly divided based on expression patterns in three processes over time; first innate response and immigration of immune cells, secondly differentiation and spec... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528953 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528953 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527748&dopt=Abstract In this study, we performed cDNA cloning. The cDNA sequence showed a predicted acaloleptin A precursor that consisted of five acaloleptin A isoforms. Four (isoforms 1, 2, 3 and 4) of the five isoforms of the acaloleptin A precursor had high-level sequence identities with each other, but the N-terminal region of isoform 5 differed from those of the other acaloleptin A isoforms. Northern and Western blot analyses showed that acaloleptin A isoforms were mass-produced soon after bacterial inoculation. Finally we purified isoform 5 from hemolymph of the immunized larvae. Isoform 5, unlike acaloleptin A1, A2 and A3, showed antimicrobial activities against a Gram-positive bacterium, Micrococcus luteus and a fungus,Magnaporthe grisea. These results suggest that the multipeptide structure of the ac... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528950 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528950 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527749&dopt=Abstract In this study, we determined 212,193bp of a continuous porcine genomic sequence covering the entire TRBC region. EPHB6, TRPV6, TRY, and ten TRBV genes were conserved in the vicinity of the TRBD-J-C clusters. Interestingly, three TRBD-J-C clusters were identified in this sequence; each TRBD-J-C cluster consisted of one TRBD and seven TRBJ segments, with one TRBC region composed of four exons. The distribution of repetitive sequences and phylogenetic analysis indicated that the TRBD-J-C cluster, located at the center of the three clusters identified, had a structure combined with the others. Most of the TRBJ segments were available in public databases, suggesting that all three TRBD-J-C clusters are functional in pigs. PMID: 19527749 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Developme... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528943 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528943 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527750&dopt=Abstract We report on the cloning and characterization of Trypanosoma carassii 70KDa heat shock protein (hsp70). T. carassii hsp70 was secreted/excreted into culture medium in vitro and was recognized by sera from infected fish. Recombinant hsp70 (rhsp70) activated goldfish macrophages and stimulated the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines including interferon gamma (IFNgamma), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, (IL)-12 and chemokines CCL-1 and CXCL-8 (IL-8). T. carassii hsp70-induced cytokine expression was abrogated by pronase treatment of macrophages confirming the existence of receptor(s) on goldfish macrophage surface that recognize parasite molecule. Parasite hsp70 also up-regulated the expression inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) isoforms A and B and induced... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528941 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528941 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19527751&dopt=Abstract In this study we report on the molecular and functional characterization of kit receptor A (kita) and kit ligand A (kitla) from the goldfish. Both kita and kitla were ubiquitously expressed in goldfish tissues, with higher mRNA levels observed in the kidney and spleen, the major hematopoietic organs in fish. Furthermore, both kita and kitla expression decreased in a time dependent manner in goldfish primary kidney macrophage (PKM) cultures, as progenitor to macrophage development progressed, and the highest expression of both the receptor and ligand were observed in sorted progenitor cell populations. Activation of mature macrophage cultures increased both kita and kitla expression. Kit ligand A induced chemotactic response, proliferation and survival of PKM cells in a dose-dependent manne... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528939 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528939 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19477195&dopt=Abstract Authors: Moss LD, Monette MM, Jaso-Friedmann L, Leary JH, Dougan ST, Krunkosky T, Evans DL Coelomic cavity (CC) cells of mature zebrafish harvested by lavage with media or trypsin-EDTA contained 0.80-1.20x10(5) and 2.0-3.5x10(5) cells, respectively. Media lavage was composed of granulocytes (60-80%), lymphocytes (10-20%), and NCC (4-10%). Granulocytes had large electron dense cytoplasmic paracrystalline granules and a segmented nucleus; they expressed plastin-1, myeloid specific peroxidase and MCSF mRNA; and they were NCAMP-1(+). Lymphocytes had B- and T-cell specific mRNA and were NCAMP-1(-) and NCCRP-1(-). NCC were 3mum, NCAMP-1(+) and NCCRP-1(+) and did not express B- and T-cell specific mRNA. Additionally, trypsin lavage contained monocytes (marginated chromatin, low nuclear:cytopl... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528968 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528968 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19467260&dopt=Abstract Authors: Zhang H, Wang L, Song L, Zhao J, Qiu L, Gao Y, Song X, Li L, Zhang Y, Zhang L CfTEP is a member of thioester-containing protein (TEP) family found in Zhikong scallop Chlamys farreri and is involved in innate immunity against invading microbes. In the present study, the genomic DNA of CfTEP was cloned and characterized. The genomic DNA sequence of CfTEP consisted of 40 exons and 39 introns spanning 35kb with all exon-intron junction sequences agreeing with the GT/AG consensus. The genomic organization of CfTEP was similar to human and mouse C3 rather than ciona C3-1 and Drosophila dTEP2. By RT-PCR technique, seven different cDNA variants of CfTEP (designated as CfTEP-A-CfTEP-G) were cloned from scallop gonad. CfTEP-A-CfTEP-F were produced by alternative splicing of six mutually... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528972 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528972 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19465048&dopt=Abstract Authors: Pisuttharachai D, Fagutao FF, Yasuike M, Aono H, Yano Y, Murakami K, Kondo H, Aoki T, Hirono I Crustin antimicrobial proteins (PJC1-4) were identified from a phyllosoma library of Japanese spiny lobster, Panulirus japonicus. The deduced amino acid sequences of PJC1-4 contained open reading frames of 130, 139, 124 and 150 amino acid residues, respectively. These proteins contained a glycine-rich region at the N-terminus and 12 conserved cysteine residues containing a single whey acidic protein (WAP) domain at the C-terminus. A phylogenetic tree and sequences alignment analyses revealed that PJC1-4 are more closely related to shrimp crustins than to other lobster crustins. Transcripts of PJC1, 3 and 4 were detected in heart, nerves, intestine, hemocytes, gills and hepatopancreas... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528979 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528979 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19467259&dopt=Abstract In this study, we identified and characterized Bombyx mori transferrin (BmTf). The promoter region of BmTf has numerous putative NF-kappaB binding sites, suggesting its possible function in innate immunity. Analysis of BmTf gene expression shows that it is highly inducible in response to a wide variety of pathogens including bacteria, fungus, and viruses. Recombinant BmTf protein produced in a baculovirus system exhibits iron binding capacity and antibacterial activity against various Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. Taken together, our results indicate that BmTf is an inducible immune effector molecule that may play an important role in pathogen clearance of insect innate immunity. PMID: 19467259 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunolog... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528975 Mon, 01 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2528975 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19447131&dopt=Abstract Authors: Jaenicke E, Fraune S, May S, Irmak P, Augustin R, Meesters C, Decker H, Zimmer M In the Common woodlouse Porcellio scaber (Crustacea: Isopoda: Oniscidea), experimental immune challenge did not induce the expression of pro-phenoloxidase that, in most other invertebrates studied thus far, can be activated into phenoloxidase via an activation cascade upon immune challenge. Instead, Porcellio hemocyanin proved to exhibit catecholoxidase activity upon activation. However, none of the activating factors known from other invertebrates other than SDS-treatment resulted in activation of hemocyanin into a functional phenoloxidase in vitro. The distinct characteristics of isopod hemocyanin are reflected by the quaternary structure of the hemocyanin dodecamers that differs from that of ot... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529003 Wed, 27 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2529003 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19416736&dopt=Abstract Authors: Roth O, Kurtz J Specificity and memory are the hallmarks of the adaptive immune system of vertebrates. However, phenomena of specificity upon priming of immunity have recently been demonstrated also in invertebrates, which rely exclusively on innate immune defence. It has been suggested that phagocytosis might represent a core candidate for such specificity in invertebrates. We here developed in vitro phagocytosis measurements for different bacteria in the woodlouse Porcellio scaber (Crustacea: Isopoda). After immune priming with heat-killed bacteria, hemocytes showed increased phagocytosis of a previously encountered bacterial strain compared to other bacteria. These data support the role of phagocytosis in invertebrate immunological specificity and suggest a high degree of s... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2529020 Thu, 14 May 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2529020 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19201380&dopt=Abstract Authors: Takase H, Watanabe A, Yoshizawa Y, Kitami M, Sato R C-type lectins can act as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in innate immunity. Previously, we identified two C-type lectins from silkworm (Bombyx mori), BmLBP and BmMBP, as PRRs. In the present study, we identified three homologs of these lectins by searching the silkworm genome database. These novel B. mori low-expression lectins were designated BmLEL-1, BmLEL-2, and BmLEL-3. Although Western-blot analysis failed to detect BmLEL-1, -2, or -3 in plasma, affinity precipitation of larval plasma with various microorganisms revealed that BmLEL-1 and -2 bind to rough and smooth strains of Gram-negative bacteria, respectively. BmLEL-1, -2, and -3 were found to be expressed in testis and ovary, where BmLEL-2 expression was up-re... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2173193 Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2173193 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19189846&dopt=Abstract We report that VEGF induced the expression of chemokines (IL-8, RANTES, MCP-1), cytokines (IFN-gamma, IL-6, TNF-alpha, GMCSF), Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4, complement family members (C3, CFB, CFH) and collectins (SP-A, SP-D). These results suggest that VEGF can regulate local immune gene expression in vivo and should be further explored as a potential exogenous therapy for various lung diseases. PMID: 19189846 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2163690 Sat, 31 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2163690 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19185587&dopt=Abstract In this study, recombinant CRD1 and CRD2 were expressed separately in Escherichia coli and purified. They have the ability to agglutinate Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and fungi in the presence of Ca(2+). They also have different spectra of sugar binding abilities. The rHa-lectin, rCRD1 and rCRD2 could inhibit the growth in quantity of Bacillus thuringiensis in vivo by increasing hemocyte phagocytosis. These results suggested that Ha-lectin and its two domains could function as a pattern recognition receptor or an opsonin in vivo to promote the hemocyte phagocytosis of pathogens and protect the insect from bacterial infection. PMID: 19185587 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology) Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2156702 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2156702 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?tmpl=NoSidebarfile&db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19185588&dopt=Abstract In this study, a novel multidomain C-type lectin gene from scallop Chlamys farreri (designated as Cflec-4) was cloned by RACE approach based on EST analysis. The full-length cDNA of Cflec-4 was of 2086bp. The open reading frame was of 1830bp and encoded a polypeptide of 609 amino acids, including a signal sequence and four dissimilar carbohydrate-recognition domains (CRDs). The deduced amino acid sequence of Cflec-4 shared high similarities to other C-type lectin family members. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the divergence between the three N-terminal CRDs and the C-terminal one, suggesting that the four CRDs in Cflec-4 originated by repeated duplication of different primordial CRD. The potential tertiary structure of each CRD in Cflec-4 was typical double-loop structure with Ca(2+)-b... Developmental and Comparative Immunology journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2156701 Wed, 28 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2156701