Distribution of 32 kDa mannan-specific lectin in tissues of the Far East holothurian Stichopus japonica

A new 32 kDa lectin mostly interacting with highly branched yeast-like mann ans was isolated from the coelomic fluid of the Far East trepang Stichopus japonicus (Holothuroidea: Aspidochirota). Polyclonal rabbit antibodies to t his mannan-specific lectin were raised for studying its distribution in the trepang tissues; It was shown using immunocytochemistry that the lectin ma kes part of basal membranes delimiting the hemal sinuses of the intestine a nd respiratory tree, connective tissue membrane of testes, membrane of eggs , and granules of morula-like coelomocytes, The latter appear to synthesize this lectin, The data on distribution of the mannan-specific lectin in the trepang cells and tissues suggest its involvement in quasiimmune protectio n, regeneration, and reproduction.