Identification, cloning and heterologous expression of a new lectin like protein in tea

- Helopeltis theivora infestation induces expression of a new lectin like gene in tea.
- Transcript abundance of the gene varies between tolerant and susceptible cultivars.
- Encoded protein was expressed and purified in heterologous system.
- The protein contains Q-X-W motifs and putative sugar binding sites.
- First ever report of induction of lectin like gene in tea by H. theivora.