title: A chitin-binding lectin from stinging nettle rhizomes with antifungal properties.
abstract: Rhizomes of stinging nettle contain a small-sized lectin that exhibits binding specificity toward chitin. This lectin inhibits growth of several phytopathogenic and saprophytic chitin-containing fungi in vitro. The antifungal action of the nettle lectin differs from the action of chitinases, which are a ubiquitous class of antifungal plant proteins. Moreover, the nettle lectin acts synergistically with chitinase in inhibiting fungal growth. The nettle lectin may be a promising candidate for possible applications in the genetic engineering of disease-resistant crops.
authors.forename: W F
authors.initials: WF
authors.lastname: Broekaert
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: VAN Parijs
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Leyns
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Joos
authors.forename: W J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Peumans