A maize gene coding for a chimeric superlectin reduces growth of maize fungal pathogens and insect pests when expressed transgenically in maize callus

Plant breeding for pest resistance is a long process, and the rate of development resistant varieties would be accelerated if genes to multiple pests could identified. A gene located in locus was cloned from maize inbred with Fusarium spp. pathogens. This codes an unusual lectin regions high histidine proline frequency two apparent sugar binding moieties. Binding studies yeast-produced versions indicated N-acetyl glucosamine residues are likely target. When expressed transgenically callus, reduced growth pathogenic species (up 71%) caterpillar 65%) noted compared control transformants, degree inhibition associated levels protein detected. Available sequence other inbreds it often disrupted code proteins function. Incorporation functional into crops will assist sustainable crop production by promoting enhanced resistance.