The Diversity of Yellow-Related Proteins in Sand Flies (Diptera: Psychodidae)

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166191
• Publication Date: 2016-11-03T13:52:15Z
• Authors: Michal Sima; Marian Novotny; Lukas Pravda; Petra Sumova; Iva Rohousova; Petr Volf
• Keywords: Phlebotomus

Yellow-related proteins (YRPs) present in sand fly saliva act as affinity binders of bioamines, and help the to complete a bloodmeal by scavenging physiological signals damaged cells. They are also main antigens their recombinant form is used marker host exposure flies. Moreover, several salivary plasmids coding these induce strong immune response hosts bitten flies being design protecting vaccines against Leishmania parasites. In this study, thirty two 3D models different yellow-related from thirteen species genera were constructed based on known protein structure Lutzomyia longipalpis. We studied evolutionary relationships among sequences well sequence structural variability ligand-binding site. All 33 YRPs shared similar structure, including unique tunnel that connects site with solvent independent paths. However, intraspecific modifications found affects charges entrances tunnel, length its hydrophobicity. suggest sequential differences influence abilities provide greater number YRP paralogs more nuanced answers bioamines. characteristics allow us better evaluate respect potential use part anti-Leishmania or an antigen measure