Isolation and characterization of a C-type lectin cDNA specifically expressed in the tip of mouthparts of the flesh fly Sarcophaga peregrina.

We have isolated a novel gene, CLEM 36, of the flesh fly Sarcophaga peregrina, which shows significant homology to the C-type lectin family. CLEM 36 mRNA was transcribed excessively from the second day after eclosion only in the tip of mouthparts. Whole mount in situ hybridization showed that CLEM 36 mRNA was expressed in the C-type lectin-producing tissue (CLPT) located at the entrance of the food canal and between the labellum and haustellum. Immunoblot analysis showed that the mature form of CLEM 36 protein was synthesized in the CLPT, then secreted into saliva. Our results indicate that CLEM 36 protein may play an important role in biological defence against pathogens during the food intake of this insect.