Title | Functional convergence of invertebrate and vertebrate cytokine-like molecules based on a similar lectin-like activity. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2004 |
Authors | Beschin, A., M. Bilej, S. Magez, R. Lucas, and P. De Baetselier |
Journal | Prog Mol Subcell Biol |
Volume | 34 |
Pagination | 145-63 |
Date Published | 2004 |
ISSN | 0079-6484 |
Keywords | Animals, Cytokines, Cytotoxins, Host-Parasite Interactions, Immunity, Innate, Invertebrates, Lectins, Oligochaeta, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Vertebrates |
Abstract | It is generally accepted that the action of cytokines results from their binding to specific receptors. However, many cytokines possess lectin-like activity that may be essential for the expression of their full biological activities. This review focuses on the physiological relevance of the lectin-like activity of cytokines during the innate immune response in mammals, using TNF as an illustrative example. Moreover, we will show that TNF displays functional analogies with a defense molecule from the earthworm Eisenia foetida termed CCF. These analogies are not reflected by primary sequence homology between CCF and TNF but are particularly based on a similar lectin-like activity/domain. Hence, from a phylogenetic point of view, the lectin-like activity/domain of CCF and TNF may represent an essential recognition mechanism that has been functionally conserved during the innate immune response of invertebrates and vertebrates as a result of convergent evolution. |
Alternate Journal | Prog. Mol. Subcell. Biol. |
PubMed ID | 14979667 |
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