Identification of neuroglobin as a novel player in anti-bacterial responses in amphioxus

Theoretical considerations support various functions of neuroglobin (Ngb), but further studies are required for full characterization of these functions. In this study, we identified the presence of a single Ngb gene, BjNgb, in the amphioxus Branchiostoma japonicum. BjNgb was expressed in various tissues including the notochord, gonads (ovary and testis) and gill, and up-regulated significantly in response to the challenge with LPS and LTA, suggesting involvement in immune response of amphioxus against bacterial infection. In accord, we demonstrated for the first time that recombinant BjNgb (rBjNgb) not only interacted with the Gram-positive and negative bacteria as well as their conserved surface components LPS and LTA, but also enhanced the phagocytosis of bacteria by macrophages. Collectively, these data suggest that BjNgb is a novel player in amphioxus, via functioning as a pattern recognition molecule and an opsonin. •A single Ngb gene, BjNgb, was identified in Branchiostoma japonicum.•BjNgb was expressed in a tissue-specific manner.•Challenge with LPS and LTA resulted in up-regulation of BjNgb.•rBjNgb specifically bound to Gram-positive and negative bacteria, and LPS and LTA.•rBjNgb enhanced the phagocytosis of bacteria by macrophages.