ANTISERA POTENTIAL OF INDIGENOUS NIGERIAN PLANT LECTINS: A REVIEW

Abstract

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins ubiquitous in nature, particularly abundant in plants. Indigenous Nigerian plants represent a vast untapped resource for novel lectins with diverse biological properties. This review explores the potential of these lectins as anti-sera agents. We will discuss the isolation, purification, and characterization of lectins from Nigerian plants. Additionally, we will explore the in vitro and in vivo studies evaluating their agglutination activity against various blood types. The review will highlight the advantages of utilizing indigenous lectins for therapeutic applications due to their potential specificity and reduced immunogenicity. Finally, we will address the challenges and future directions for research in this field, emphasizing the need for further exploration and development of these promising anti-sera agents from Nigeria's rich botanical heritage.