Bt: mode of action and use

Whalon, M.E. and Wingerd, B A (2003) Bt: mode of action and use. Archives of Insect Biochemistry and Physiology :200–211 (2003, 54 (4). pp. 200-211.

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Abstract

The insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) represent a class of biopesticides that are attractive alternatives to broad-spectrum “hard” chemistries. The U.S. Food Quality Protection Act and the European Economic Council directives aimed at reducing the use of carbamate and organophosphate insecticides were expected to increase the use of narrowly targeted, “soft” compounds like Bt. Here we summarize the unique mode of action of Bt, which contributes to pest selectivity. We also review the patterns of Bt use in general agriculture and in specific niche markets. Despite continued predictions of dramatic growth for biopesticides due to US Food Quality Protection Act–induced cancellations of older insecticides, Bt use has remained relatively constant, even in niche markets where Bt has traditionally been relatively high.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Bacillus thuringiensis; insecticidal protein; biopesticide; Bt use; molecular mechanism
Author Affiliation: Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan
Subjects: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry > Plant Physiology
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry > Biochemistry
Divisions: General
Depositing User: Sandhya Gir
Date Deposited: 22 Jul 2011 10:47
Last Modified: 22 Jul 2011 10:47
Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/arch.10117
URI: http://eprints.icrisat.ac.in/id/eprint/2449

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