| dc.description.abstract | The innate immune system is a non-specific, first-line of defense against invaders. It works by mediating complement-dependent cell lysis. Components of innate immunity include macrophages, complement, natural killer cells, carbohydrate-specific antibodies, and mannose binding protein (MBP), Ca²⁺-dependent lectin. MBP has been shown to be important in preventing bacterial and viral infections. In addition to MBP, however, serum also has mannose-specific antibodies (MSA) whose role in innate immunity has not been characterized. This research sought to evaluate the respective roles of MBP and MSA in innate immunity by comparing relative amounts present in bovine sera. Inhibition assays with different sugar inhibitors showed yeast mannan to have the greatest inhibiting effect, suggesting MSA recognize a highly conformational epitope. Affinity chromatography using a mannan-conjugated matrix was then performed with elutions based on pH, charge, and Ca²⁺ interactions. SDS-PAGE showed a dominant presence of IgG and IgM. A 30 kDa lectin-like band was initially observed but was not subsequently confirmed. Elution with mannan provided the greatest protein yield, consistent with the previous characterization. Western blot analysis confirmed the presence of IgG and IgM. The biological effect was evaluated by agglutination with homogenized yeast particles. A positive result was achieved. Overall results did not show a strong presence of MBP in bovine sera. Mannose-specific antibodies were present in larger amounts, suggesting that they play a significant role in innate immunity. | en |
