Observations on a Haemagglutinin from the Freshwater Mussel Anodonta anatina

Abstract

Whole-body extracts of the bivalve Anodonta anatina gave apparent non-specific agglutination with enzyme treated human erythrocytes, but a decreasing gradient of agglutination became evident of the order 0I, BI, A(2)BI, A(2)I, (A(3)I, A(x)I, O(h)l), A(1)BI, A(1)I, adult ii, cord ii cells, suggesting an anti-I specificity. The agglutinin was inhibited by galactose and its oligosaccharides, particularly lactose and stachyose. Absorption tests with different red cell types, inhibition tests with salivas and simple sugars, and the effect of different cations, suggested the presence of additional agglutinins in the extract.