Wheat germ agglutinin

A lectin found in wheat germ with various biological properties

Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) is a lectin that is extracted from the germ of wheat seeds. It is a protein that binds specifically to certain carbohydrate molecules, making it a valuable tool in biochemistry and cell biology.

Structure and Properties

Wheat germ agglutinin is a glycoprotein that consists of two identical subunits. Each subunit has a molecular weight of approximately 18 kDa. WGA is known for its ability to bind to N-acetylglucosamine and sialic acid residues, which are commonly found on the surfaces of cells and in the extracellular matrix.

File:Wheat germ.jpg

Wheat germ, the source of wheat germ agglutinin

Biological Functions

WGA plays a role in the plant's defense mechanisms against pathogens and pests. In the context of human health, WGA is often studied for its ability to bind to cell membranes and influence cellular processes. It can agglutinate red blood cells and has been used in laboratory settings to study cell surface properties and glycoprotein interactions.

Applications in Research

Wheat germ agglutinin is widely used in biochemical and cellular research. It is often employed as a tool for:

• Cell Labeling: WGA can be conjugated to fluorescent dyes or enzymes to label cell surfaces for microscopy or flow cytometry.
• Glycoprotein Isolation: Due to its carbohydrate-binding properties, WGA is used to isolate and purify glycoproteins from complex mixtures.
• Histochemistry: WGA is used in histological studies to stain tissues and identify specific carbohydrate structures.

Health Implications

While WGA is a useful tool in research, its presence in food has raised some concerns. Ingestion of large amounts of WGA can potentially interfere with nutrient absorption and may contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals. However, the levels of WGA in typical dietary consumption are generally considered safe for most people.

Related Pages

• Lectin
• Glycoprotein
• N-acetylglucosamine
• Sialic acid
• Cell membrane