Question

Why has the Bt toxin gene been cloned?

Answer 1

Bt toxin:

1. Bacillus thuringiensis is a gram-positive soil bacterium that produces toxins fatal to insects.
2. The Bt toxin is employed as an insecticide that targets the nervous system of insects.
3. This endotoxin is encoded by cry gene and produce crystalline proteins that have an insecticidal effect.
4. It is a fast-acting insecticide that damages the insect's digestive system and causes it to die.
5. The Bt toxin gene is cloned from the bacteria and integrated into the plant genome to provide insect resistance.
6. Inbuilt biopesticide is safe for human consumption and reduces the use of insecticides.
7. It also boosts crop yield and simplifies crop management.