Detection of the first lectin with antimicrobial activity present in serum of the Amazonian fish tambaqui Colossoma macropomum.

Tambaqui Colossoma macropomum is the most important Amazonian native species in South American aquaculture. Innate immunity at least partially depends on the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns by receptor-recognizing pathogens (PRRs). Some PRRs have been characterized in fishes, and several studies have focused on the role of lectins in the immune system of various fishes. Lectins are proteins that specifically recognize carbohydrates and which have important biological functions. Tambaqui serum lectin (ComaSeL), which was identified on the basis of its hemagglutinating activity, was pre-purified, biochemically characterized, and used in assays of antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria in freshwater fishes. A study of the seasonality of this lectin was performed. Comasel activity was stable at a pH between 4.0 and 9.0 and lost 100 % of its activity at 70 °C. It recognized the carbohydrates d-galactose, 1- O-methyl- d-galactopyranoside, and d-fucose, showing antibacterial activity for Gram-negative bacteria. Its activity showed significant differences between the summer and winter ( p < 0.05, Tukey test), thereby corroborating observations that tambaqui becomes more susceptible to mortality from diseases caused by bacteria and fungi during the winter. With this information, new tools may be developed for gaining a better understanding of the role of these proteins in the immune system of the tambaqui, ultimately resulting in the improved management of this fish by pisciculturists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]