Molecular cloning and expression of icarapin, a novel IgE-binding bee venom protein

The 1045 bp full-length cDNA sequence of a new bee venom component was obtained by rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The 672 bp coding sequence corresponds to a protein with a signal peptide and multiple carbohydrate binding sites, and it was named icarapin. It has the new consensus sequence N-[TS]-T-S-[TV]-x-K-[VI](2)-[DN]-G-H-x-V-x-I-N-[ED]-T-x-Y-x-[DHK]- x(2,6)- [STA]-[VLFI]-x-[KR]-V-R-[VLI]-[IV]-[DN]-V-x-P. At least two transcript variants were found. Recombinant icarapin was tested for recognition by IgE antibodies and gave a positive dot blot with sera from 4 out of 5 bee venom allergic patients, all beekeepers. Indirect immunofluorescent staining localized the protein in the cuticular lining of the venom duct. (c) 2006 Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.