Abstract
The monoclonal antibody GSLA-2 recognizes the sialyl Lewisa (sLea) epitope, which has an increased occurrence on mucin type glycoproteins of patients with colorectal carcinoma. GSLA-2 is therefore used in tumor diagnosis. To advance the understanding of this highly specific molecular recognition reaction, we have analyzed the binding epitope of sLea at atomic resolution using saturation transfer difference NMR. To compare, the binding epitopes of sialyl Lewisx (sLex) and of four synthetic derivatives of sLea were explored. Surface plasmon resonance experiments furnished thermodynamic and kinetic data. It is observed that all pyranose rings of sLea are in contact with the protein surface, with the neuramic acid residue receiving the largest fraction of saturation transfer. In contrast, sLex binds very weakly, though specifically to GSLA-2, with a different binding epitope. This study provides a comprehensive picture of the recognition sLea and explains the exquisite specificity of the antibody.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Journal of Medicinal Chemistry |
Volume | 48 |
Issue number | 22 |
Pages (from-to) | 6879-6886 |
Number of pages | 8 |
ISSN | 0022-2623 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 03.11.2005 |
Research Areas and Centers
- Academic Focus: Center for Infection and Inflammation Research (ZIEL)