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Definition of lectin
: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)
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Recent Examples of lectin from the Web
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Some or most beans contain a toxin called a lectin or phytohemagglutinin (PHA); its highest concentration is in red kidney beans.
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A 2016 study in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention found that the lectins in oyster mushrooms may help reduce the toxic impact of arsenic on the liver and kidneys.
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But when the lectin binds, the bacteria that attaches changes the balance of the droplets, causing them to tip on their side.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'lectin'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of lectin
Latin lectus (past participle of legere to pick, select) + 1-in — more at legend
Medical Dictionary
lectin
playMedical Definition of lectin
: any of a group of proteins especially of plants that are not antibodies and do not originate in an immune system but bind specifically to carbohydrate-containing receptors on cell surfaces (as of red blood cells)
Learn More about lectin
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See words that rhyme with lectin Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lectin
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