I need to know if gluten is a protein?

Question

I need to do a "molecule report" for my cell biology class and it has to be on a protein. I've found an interesting molecule, gluten. I just need verification that it is a protein (and not a gene because I'm finding a lot of gene information on it.)

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Gluten is in fact a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. About 1% of the population has an allergy to gluten called celiac disease. This is a genetic disorder, so the gene results you are getting for gluten are probably referring to the recessive (celiac disease) gene, which makes it impossible for those with the disease to properly digest the protein, gluten.  

Depending on the extent of your molecule report, you may find my website and Q & A forum helpful.  

Answer 2

As it appears, it is a protein.

"Gluten is a composite of the proteins gliadin and glutenin. These exist, conjoined with starch, in the endosperms of some grass-related grains, notably wheat, rye, and barley. Gliadin and glutenin comprise about 80% of the protein contained in wheat seed. Being insoluble in water, they can be purified by washing away the associated starch. Worldwide, gluten is an important source of nutritional protein, both in foods prepared directly from sources containing it, and as an additive to foods otherwise low in protein."