Expression and purification of a biologically active Phytophthora parasitica cellulose binding elicitor lectin in Pichia pastoris

► CBEL (Cellulose Binding Elicitor Lectin), an oomycetal elicitor of plant defense was cloned in a Pichia expression vector. ► Optimization of CBEL expression allowed a purification yield of 2 mg/L of culture medium. ► Recombinant and native CBELs share similar biological activities including cellulose binding and induction of plant immunity. ► Pichia pastoris is a well-adapted heterologous host for the production of bioactive molecules for plant protection.