Molecular characterization and crystallization of Diocleinae lectins

Molecular characterization of seven Diocleinae lectins was assessed by sequ ence analysis, determination of molecular masses by mass spectrometry, and analytical ultracentrifugation equilibrium sedimentation. The lectins show distinct pH-dependent dimer-tetramer equilibria, which we hypothesize are d ue to small primary structure differences at key positions. Lectins from Di oclea guianensis, Dioclea virgata, and Cratylia floribunda seeds have been crystallized and preliminary X-ray diffraction analyses are reported. (C) 1 999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.