The expression of blood group antigens causes deletion of cells that generate self-specific antibodies to those antigens, but this deletion could limit adaptive immunity toward pathogens bearing cognate antigens. Two innate immune lectins, galectin-4 and galectin-8, are now reported to recognize and kill human blood group antigen–expressing bacteria.
- Sean R Stowell
- Connie M Arthur
- Richard D Cummings
