concanavalin

kɑnˈkænəvəˌleɪn

Definitions

1. noun

A lectin (a carbohydrate-binding protein) found in certain plants, especially the jack bean, used in biochemical and immunological research, and in medicine to stimulate the immune system.

“The scientist used concanavalin A to study the effects of lectins on cell behavior in the laboratory.”

Synonyms

  • lectin
  • phytohemagglutinin

Antonyms

  • enzyme inhibitor