ADHESINS OF IMMUNOGLOBULIN-LIKE SUPERFAMILY FROM EARTHWORM EISENIA-FOETIDA

1. From the biologically active extract (G-90) isolated from the tissu e homogenate of Eisenia foetida immunogloubin-like structures were iso lated and named G-90/4. 2. G-90/4 in nanogram concentrations stimulate d cell proliferation more than did the original G-90. It lyses cells i n microgram concentrations. 3. G-90/4 acts as an adhesion molecule bet ween the receptors of adjacent cells. 4. The increase in proliferative activity was accompanied by the elevation of cytoplasmic protein cont aining tyrosine. 5. Immunohistochemical analyses confirm immunoglobuli n-like transmembrane structures in the connective and muscular tissues of E. foetida. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.