The antibody reacts with human natural and recombinant lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP). LBP is an approximately 60 kDa acute phase protein that is produced by hepatocytes. This protein strongly binds to LPS and has been shown to play an important role in the handling of LPS by the host. A number of functions of LBP have been reported. First, LBP transfers LPS to the LPS receptor CD14 on mononuclear phagocytes, leading to an 100-1,000-fold increased sensitivity of the cells to LPS. Furthermore, LBP can enhances the response of CD14 negative cells by acceleration of LPS binding to soluble CD14, a complex that stimulates these cells. Next, LBP transfers LPS into High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), which effectively neutralizes its biological potency. LBP was demonstrated to protect mice from septic shock caused by LPS or gram negative bacteria.
