Serological Studies on an α‐D‐Galactosyl‐Binding Lectin Isolated from Bandeiraea simplicifolia Seeds

The serological characteristics of a highly purified α‐D‐galactosyl‐binding lectin, isolated from extracts of Bandeiraea simplicifolia seeds, are described. These studies show that the lectin preferentially agglutinates group B red cells and in addition has the capacity to distinguish between group A 1 and group A 2 erythrocytes. Since the lectin is not absolutely specific for group B red cells, it is therefore unsuitable as an anti‐B blood typing reagent. However, the reactions obtained against Tn and ‘acquired‐B’ red cells suggest that it may be of value in the elucidation and classification of red cell polyagglutinable states.