Lectin from Triticum vulgaris (wheat)

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins, found in fungi, plants and animals. The secondary structure of a lectin is rich in β-strands and possesses a carbohydrate binding sites on the surface.

Used for the purification of glycoproteins containing (D-N-acetylglucosamine)₂ or N-acetylneuraminic acid.

WGA is not blood group specific but has an affinity for N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminyl residues and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine oligomers. WGA contains no protein-bound carbohydrate.

Lectins are known to be useful in glycoconjugate characterizing, imaging and targeting. They specifically interact with oligosaccharides, glycoproteins and glycolipids. Hence, lectins are used in microarray assays, enabling efficient glycome profiling. In plants and fungi, lectins defend against pathogens or feeders. They are also involved in host recognition and tissue adhesion.

Suspension in 1.0 M NaCl containing 15 mM sodium azide

Conjugates are prepared from affinity purified lectin.