The resistance of the cowpea cv. BRS Xiquexique to infestation by cowpea weevil is related to the presence of toxic chitin-binding proteins

The cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) is the main pest that attacks (Vigna unguiculata) seeds during storage, causing nutritional and economic losses in crop. Thus, studies aiming to identify resistant cultivars have been developed. Chitin-binding proteins (CBP), such vicilins chitinases, detected related with toxicity insects. In this work, we investigated presence of chitin-binding partially cv. BRS Xiquexique evaluated their towards weevil. CBP fraction was isolated by chitin affinity chromatography. showed, through 15% SDS PAGE, protein bands varying molecular masses, mainly below 55 kDa. Proteins present were identified Western blotting mass spectrometry analysis, as chitinases. fraction, at 5%, able interfere development weevil, decreasing larval length. A CBV (chitin-binding vicilin) from toxic, 2.0%, C. maculatus, length 64.3% 33.23%, respectively. These results suggest binding proteins, may be resistance infestation maculatus.