The most abundant cyst wall proteins of < i > Acanthamoeba castellanii < /i > are lectins that bind cellulose and localize to distinct structures in developing and mature cyst walls

Conclusions/SignificanceThe most abundantA.castellanii cyst wall proteins are three sets of lectins, which have carbohydrate-binding modules that are conserved (CBM49s of Luke), newly characterized (CAA of Jonah), or unique toAcanthamoebae (8-Cys of Leo). Cyst wall formation is a tightly choreographed event, in which lectins and glycopolymers combine to form a mature wall with a protected endocyst layer. Because of its accessibility in the ectocyst layer, an abundant Jonah lectin is an excellent diagnostic target.
Source: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases - Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Source Type: research