Lectin-induced enhancement of superoxide anion production by red tide phytoplankton

摘要: Chattonella marina, a raphidophycean flagellate, is highly toxic red tide phytoplankton which causes severe damage to fish farming. Recent studies demonstrated that spp. continuously release superoxide anions (O2 −) while they are living. Heterosigma akashiwo, another also produces O2 −. In the present study, we found lectins such as concanavalin A (Con A), wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), and castor bean hemagglutinin (CBH) stimulated  C. marina H. akashiwo generate enhanced amounts of − in concentration-dependent manner. The lectin-specific sugars potently inhibited lectin-induced increase production, suggesting effects mediated mainly through interaction these with carbohydrate moiety on flagellate cell surface. contrast potent ability native Con (tetravalent), succinylated (divalent) showed only slight stimulative effect flagellates. production was totally by treatment proteinase K for 30 min, without affecting viabilities These results suggest cell-surface redox enzymes may be involved responsible lectin-stimulation.