Lipopolysaccharide binding protein

Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the LBP gene. It plays a crucial role in the immune system by binding to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.

Function

LBP is involved in the recognition of bacterial endotoxins. It binds to LPS and facilitates its transfer to the CD14 receptor on the surface of macrophages and other immune cells. This interaction is critical for the activation of the innate immune response, leading to the production of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators.

Structure

LBP is a soluble protein found in the blood plasma. It is structurally similar to other members of the BPI/LBP/PLUNC protein family, which are involved in host defense mechanisms.

Clinical significance

Elevated levels of LBP are associated with sepsis and other inflammatory conditions. It is considered a biomarker for bacterial infections and can be used to assess the severity of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).

See also

• Endotoxin
• Sepsis
• Innate immune system

External links

• Template:PBB
• Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) 153480