Abstract
Ficolins are a group of proteins containing collagen-like and fibrinogen-like (FBG) sequences and they have a similar overall structure to Clq and the collectins. There are two types of ficolin in man: L-ficolin and M-ficolin. L-ficolin is synthesized in the liver and secreted into the plasma. It binds to several apparently unrelated structures including sugar residues and enhances phagocytosis of bound bacteria. M-ficolin is synthesized mainly in monocytes and is detected on the monocyte surface. The polypeptide sequences of f icolins, the collectins and C1q diverge mainly in their C-terminal globular regions which are, respectively, FBG domains, Ca 2+-dependent carbohydrate recognition domains (C-type CRD), and collagen-related sequences. The FBG domain consists of 220-250 residues and is found in a number of proteins besides fibrinogen and ficolins. The crystal structure of the FBG domain has been characterized and the elucidation of its binding properties should provide essential insights into its role in ficolins and other proteins.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
