Binding evaluation of isoform 1 from Cratylia mollis lectin to human mammary tissues

The phenomenon of altered carbohydrates in transformed cell surfaces has be en studied through histochemical techniques using lectins. Specific binding patterns to normal and transformed mammary tissues were evaluated by Isofo rm 1 from Cratylia mollis lectin (Cra Iso 1). Protocols using a direct meth od, incubation of Cra Iso I conjugated to peroxidase (Cra Iso 1-Per) with m ammary tissues, followed by diaminobenzidine and hydrogen peroxidase intera ction, were performed. Neoplastic tissues, marked by Cra Iso 1, showed a hi gher intensity of staining than normal ones, in comparison with Canavalia e nsiformis lectin, Concanavalin A (Con A), conjugated to peroxidase (Con A-P er). The assay with Cra Iso 1 also indicated a possible utilization of this lectin to characterize normal and transformed mammary cells.