Crystal structure of human Charcot-Leyden crystal protein, an eosinophil lysophospholipase, identifies it as a new member of the carbohydrate-binding family of galectins.

Abstract

The Charcot-Leyden crystal (CLC) protein is a major autocrystallizing constituent of human eosinophils and basophils, comprising approximately 10% of the total cellular protein in these granulocytes. Identification of the distinctive hexagonal bipyramidal crystals of CLC protein in body fluids and secretions has long been considered a hallmark of eosinophil-associated allergic inflammation. Although CLC protein possesses lysophospholipase activity, its role(s) in eosinophil or basophil function or associated inflammatory responses has remained speculative.