Purification, cDNA cloning and recombinant protein expression of a phloem lectin-like anti-insect defense protein BPLP from the phloem exudate of the wax gourd, Benincasa hispida

► BPLP, a defense protein, was purified from the phloem exudate of wax gourd. ► BPLP is highly toxic to lepidopteran larvae at 0.007% concentration of a wet diet. ► The gene encoding BPLP was cloned and the amino acid sequence of BPLP was determined. ► The amino acid sequence of BPLP is similar to, but distinct from, those of phloem protein 2. ► Anti-insect defensive roles of phloem exudates and components were established.