Molecular recognition undoubtedly governs any aspect of
cellular interaction. To understand tumor cell growth
regulation and spread, analysisof protein carbohydrate
interactions can contribute to lead to the establishment of
rational methods for diagnosis and therapy. Chemically and
biochemically optimized preparation of adequate tools, their
application for localization of receptor (tissue lectin) and
ligand (cellular glycoconjugate) pairs in tumor cells and
tumor sections and the usefulness of a lectin from a plant
extract as potent immunomodulator indicate the prospect for
a place of such techniques in pathology and oncology.

Illustrated by: Paul Günther