Functional polymorphisms in the mannan-binding lectin 2 gene: effect on MBL levels and otitis media.

Background: Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) can bind to microorganisms, initiating the lectin pathway of complement activation. Aberrant MBL serum levels, caused by MBL2 gene polymorphisms, are a possible risk factor for recurrent infections. Within the 7 common MBL haplotypes, still considerable variation in MBL serum levels exists.