Prof. Yair Reisner studied molecules of various sugars and sugar-binding proteins called lectins, which allow cells to identify one another and latch on. Reisner started this research while a graduate student under the guidance of Prof. Nathan Sharon.
Application
The lectin method is employed today to separate different types of bone marrow cells before transplantation in order to prevent rejection of the transplant. The method is used routinely to save the lives of “bubble children” born with immune deficiencies.