Lectinas con dominio de leguminosa: Características estructurales y utilidad como agentes insectistáticos e insecticidas

This review aims to identify the characteristics of legume lectins that determine their insecticidal and insectistatic activities. A systematic review of the literature was conducted in Medline, Science Direct (Elsevier), Pubmed, SCOPUS, Web of Science (ISI) and Lilacs databases by using relevant keywords. The information collected was classified and selected in terms of quality and relevance. This review is mainly based on information of Phaseolus vulgaris (PHA), Glechoma hederacea (Gleheda), Canavalia ensiformis (ConA), Griffonia simplicifolia (GSII) and Pisum sativum (PSA) lectins and other legume lectins studied by the Protein Research Group in Colombia. It was evidenced that legume lectins have structural features characterized by a high percentage of beta sheet structures that form dimeric or tetrameric assemblies and present several specific sugars recognition sites, including mannose. In addition, these lectins can interact with the digestive system of insect pests and produce a decrease in intestinal absorption capacity. As conclusions, there is lack of knowledge about signals that are activated and the deleterious effects of legume lectins domain on insects.