• International Journal of Industrial Entomology and Biomaterials
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• v.19 no.2
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• pp.229-235
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• 2009

We have cloned and characterized a lipocalin from the bumblebee Bombus ignitus (Bi-lipocalin). The Bi-lipocalin gene spans 2284 bp and consists of four exons coding for 270 amino acid residues. Sequence analysis revealed that Bi-lipocalin possesses three structurally conserved regions (SCTs) that characterize lipocalins. Recombinant Bi-lipocalin, expressed as a 37 kDa protein in baculovirus-infected insect cells, was N-glycosylated, indicating that the carbohydrate moieties are necessary for secretion. Tissue distribution analysis revealed ubiquitous expression of Bi-lipocalin in all tissues examined. Bi-lipocalin transcripts were upregulated by stress, such as wounding, $H_2O_2$ exposure, and external temperature shock. These results indicate that Bi-lipocalin is a stress-inducible protein that acts on wounding, $H_2O_2$ overexposure and temperature stimulation.