IDENTIFICATION OF LECTIN-BINDING SITES IN THE RAT-BRAIN

Lectins belong to a class of proteins or glycoproteins able to bind ca rbohydrates. The study reported here describes the identification of l ectin-binding sites in the adult rat brain. The results indicate that among the 31 lectins utilized eight show a specific positive reaction with neurons. Staining was also observed with other cerebral structure s such as myelin, leptomeninges, choroid plexus and capillaries. Lecti ns are, therefore, an important histochemical tool and can be easily a nd reliably used for the identification of cells and cerebral structur es in the adult rat brain.