Lectin Histochemistry of Agrotis segetum Midgut Cells and Peritrophic Membrane

Abstract

Midgut cell and peritrophic membranes of grain pest Agrotis segetum larvae were examined bylight microscope. Six biotinylated lectins were used in the assays by applying histochemicalmethods (Avidin-Biotin-Peroxidase). The aim of this study was to find lectins binding onperitrophic membranes if they were available as insecticidal agents. Results of the studyindicated that lectins BPA (Bauhinia purpurea) and GS-I (Griffonia simplicifolia) stronglystained whereas, PNA (Pea Nut Agglutinin) and UEA-1 (Ulex europaeus) moderately stainedthe tissues. However, WGA (Wheat Germ Agglutinin) and Con-A (Canavalia ensiformis)stained the tissues weakly. The common feature of two binding proteins, BPA and GS-I lectinwas binding to D- galactose. Our examinations revealed that D-galactose mostly exists in A.segetum larvae midgut cell membranes and peritrophic membrane and this means BPA and GSIlectins can be used as insecticidal agents against A. segetum.