A novel model to characterize the electric double layer of lectins from Cratylia mollis (Camaratu bean) and Canavalia ensiformis adsorbed on metallicsurface

The seed lectin from Cratylia mollis (Cra) is glucose/mannose specific, sim ilarly to Concanavalin A, Con A, a well characterized lectin from Canavalia ensiformis. The equilibrium properties of an adsorbed layer may be examine d based on the redox potentials of the constituents of this layer. The pote ntial for Con A and Cra was obtained by potentiostatic techniques, using a saline solution as support to control the distribution of charges between s aturated calomel electrode and platinum electrode as the working electrode, in aerated environment. These potentials are modelled using a Chi-square s tatistical distribution (p < 0.05); greater stability for Con A was obtaine d with 1.0 mg/ml, at 10 degreesC. The positive redox potential determined f or Cra (+94 mV) and Con A (+88 mV) indicated a high sensitivity of our elec trodes which will give information on the kinetic behaviour of the biologic al interface. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.