Shrimp plasma HDL and beta-glucan binding protein (BGBP): comparison of biochemical characteristics

A high density lipoprotein (HDL) and beta-glucan binding protein (BGBP) have been found in the hemolymph of marine shrimp. These proteins are involved in the transport of lipid and the recognition of foreign matter, respectively. Similarities in the color of the proteins and the molecular mass were noted. For a detailed comparison, HDL and BGBP were purified from two shrimp species, Penaeus vannamei and Penaeus californiensis, and their biochemical characteristics determined. Both proteins from each of the shrimp species are monomeric with approximately the same molecular mass in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (approximately 100-112 kDa) and contain carbohydrate and lipid. The amino acid composition is similar and there is a high degree of similarity in the N-terminus. Furthermore, they are recognized by antibodies prepared independently. These results reveal that BGBP and HDL in shrimp hemolymph are the same protein, suggesting that there is a close relationship between the ability to respond to foreign matter and the diet as a provider of essential nutrients.