A novel C-type lectin with triple carbohydrate recognition domains has critical roles for the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis against Gram-negative bacteria

Issue Date

4-2016

Abstract

C-type lectins (CLecs) play an important role in innate immunity against invaders. In this study, a novel CLec was identified from Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks (HlCLec). HlCLec contains a signal peptide and a transmembrane region. Interestingly, HlCLec possesses three dissimilar carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs). Each CRD contains the mutated motif of Ca2+-binding site 2. HlCLec mRNA was up-regulated during blood feeding, and had highest expression in the midgut and ovary. HlCLec localization was also confirmed by immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). HlCLec was found on the cell membrane and basal lamina of midgut and ovary. In addition, the recombinant HlCLec and individual CRDs demonstrated direct binding activity to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus; however, no growth inhibition activity was observed. Furthermore, E. coli injection after silencing of HlCLec caused drastic reduction in survival rate of ticks. These results strongly suggest the key role of HlCLec in tick innate immunity against Gram-negative bacteria.

Source or Periodical Title

Developmental and Comparative Immunology

ISSN

0145-305X

Volume

57

Page

38-47

Document Type

Article

Physical Description

illustrations, tables, graphs

Language

English

Subject

C-type lectin, Gram-negative bacteria, Innate immunity, Recombinant, Tick

Identifier

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dci.2015.12.015.

Digital Copy

yes

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS