Question

What are cry proteins? Name an organism that produces it. How has man exploited this protein for his benefit?

Answer 1

Cry proteins:

1. Cry protein is a crystal protein that is poisonous to insects and is expressed by the cry gene.
2. Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria manufacture it in an inactive state.
3. The alkaline pH in the insects helps in the activation of cry proteins when they consume them.
4. These substances are not toxic to humans and other animals but affect insects.

The organism that produces cry protein:

1. Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria synthesize this protein.
2. Except for a few insects, this bacteria is considered non-toxic to plants and animals.
3. It is extremely selective, only killing specific insects.
4. Most helpful insects, such as lady beetles and parasitic wasps, are unaffected.
5. The cry proteins are exploited by a man by producing insect resistance crops such as Bt cotton, and Bt brinjal.