Question

The role of BT in the production of genetically modified crops.

Describe what is BT and why it is an advantageous system. Using ONE (1) suitable example, discuss the mechanism of action of the BT toxin andhow it is used to improve this agricultural crop.

Answer 1

Solution: Bacillus thuringiensis is a soil bacterium which is commonly considered as naturaln pesticide/biological pesticide. This gram negative bacilli has been frequently used to develop genetically modifies crops(GM). These GM crops show resistant to herbivore and other pathogen attack. The Bacillus thuringiensis produces a specific endotoxin which has insecticidal property.

The cry genes from Bacillus thuringiensis encodes this delta endotoxin. Initially this was used in tobacco plants for inducing herbivore resistance. Later GM crops such as BT Brinjal, BT cotton, Bt corn and other several genetically modified BT products are produced and saled through super markets and other vegetable selling stores.