Lectins of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. II. Probiotic lectins of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria as possible signal molecules regulating inter- and intrapopulation relationships between bacteria and between bacteria and the host

A system of new lectins (acidic and basic) isolated from probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria cultural fluids are described for the first time. The lectins investigated have many physicochemical, biochemical and biological features in common. The basic properties of investigated probiotic lectins are discussed. The new working determination of lectins and their current classification are proposed. The perspectives of investigated lactobacilli and bifidobacteria lectins are given.