A new variant of antimetabolic protein, arcelin from an Indian bean, Lablab purpureus (Linn.) and its effect on the stored product pest, Callosobruchus maculatus

► Arcelin gene (partial) was isolated, cloned and sequenced from Lablab purpureus. ► Its nucleotide sequence was homologous to Arl-3 and Arl-4 alleles of Phaseolus spp. ► Encoded protein has 70% identity with Arl-3I, 3III, 4 and 4I of Phaseolus spp. ► Arcelin in artificial diet retarded growth of Callosobruchus maculatus. ► Study indicated suitability of arcelin gene as a tool for transgenic development.