Effect of the Lectin of Bauhinia variegata and Its Recombinant Isoform on Surgically Induced Skin Wounds in a Murine Model

Abstract

Lectins are a structurally heterogeneous group of highly specific carbohydrate-binding proteins. Due to their great biotechnological potential, lectins are widely used in biomedical research. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the healing potential of the lectin of Bauhinia variegata (nBVL) and its recombinant isoform (rBVL-1). Following surgical creation of dorsal skin wounds, seven groups of mice were submitted to topical treatment for 12 days with lectin, d-galactose, BSA and saline. The animals were anesthetized and euthanized on POD 2, 7 and 12 in order to evaluate the healing potential of each treatment. The parameters considered included wound size, contraction rate, epithelialization rate and histopathological findings. Wound closure was fastest in animals treated with rBVL-1 (POD 7). nBVL was more effective than the controls. All skin layers were reconstructed and keratin deposition increased. Our findings indicate that the lectin of Bauhinia variegata possesses pro-healing properties and may be employed in the treatment of acute skin wounds.

A Lectin fromDioclea violaceaInteracts with Midgut Surface ofLutzomyia migonei, Unlike Its Homologues,Cratylia floribundaLectin andCanavalia gladiataLectin

“…Plant lectins have been used as biotechnological tools in different areas. These areas include cancer detection [ 26 ], effects on bacterial and yeasts growth as well as their biofilms [ 27 , 28 ], anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effect [ 29 ], anti-HIV action [ 30 ], antidepressant-like effect on nervous cells [ 31 ], larvicidal activity of Aedes aegypti [ 32 ], antineoplastic agents [ 33 ], prohealing effect [ 34 ], immunization against Leishmania infection [ 35 ], carbohydrate identification on Leishmania promastigotes [ 36 ], among others.…”

Biological Applications of Plants and Algae Lectins: An Overview

“…Recently, researches have undertaken efforts at the possible pro-healing activity of some lectins [53,54]. This goal is supported by the fact that such molecules may interfere with the inflammatory process.…”

“…Although not yet elucidated, it is suggested that this lectin appears to stimulate the mitogenic activity of resident cells, turning them into potent chemotactic agents for the recruitment of neutrophils through the release of cytokines [54]. Furthermore, it is suggested that the BVL stimulates the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblast, which is an extremely important event in the remodeling of connective tissue [55].…”

Isolation of Immunomodulatory Lectin From Seeds of Zizyphus Mauritiana.

“…From the result of phagocytic activity assay it was confirmed that the lectin from seeds of the Zizyphus mauritiana causes an increase in the phagocytic activity. Similarly lectin isolated from Bauhinia variegata seeds has been considered as potent chemotactic agents for neutrophils through the release of cytokines (Neto et al, 2011). …”