PA-I and PA-II lectin interactions with the ABO(H) and P blood group glycosphingolipid antigens may contribute to the broad spectrum adherence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to human tissues in secondary infections.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa may cause serious infections in most human tissues/organs. Its adherence to them is mediated by a battery of adhesins including the PA-I and PA-II lectins, which are produced in this bacterium in high quantities. PA-I binds to the D-galactose of the erythrocyte glycosphingolipids exhibiting highest affinities for B and Pk (followed by P1) antigens, while PA-II preferentially binds to the L-fucose of H, A and B antigens. Intact P. aeruginosa cells also exhibit a clear Pk and P1 over p preference. Such affinities for the most common human ABH and P system antigens may underlie the widespread tissue infectivity and pathogenicity of this bacterium.