Wenfei Zhang

College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, Hainan, China
Author    Correspondence author
Bioscience Methods, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 5   doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0022
Received: 11 Jul., 2024    Accepted: 22 Aug., 2024    Published: 13 Sep., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Zhang W.F., 2024, CRISPR-based gene editing in Bt for improved insecticidal properties, Bioscience Methods, 15(5): 216-225 (doi: 10.5376/bm.2024.15.0022)

CRISPR-based gene editing has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing the insecticidal properties of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) by targeting specific genetic components associated with resistance in insect pests. This study explores the application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in Bt to improve its efficacy against various insect species. Key studies demonstrate the successful knockout of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes, such as ABCC2 and ABCC3, which are crucial for mediating resistance to Bt toxins in pests like the diamondback moth and cotton bollworm. These genetic modifications have resulted in significantly increased resistance levels, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Bt toxin resistance. Additionally, this study highlights the potential of CRISPR-mediated gene deletions in Bt strains to enhance their pesticidal protein profiles, thereby broadening their spectrum of activity against multiple insect pests. The findings underscore the importance of CRISPR technology in developing next-generation biopesticides with improved insecticidal properties and reduced likelihood of resistance development.

CRISPR/Cas9; Bacillus thuringiensis; Insecticidal proteins; ABC transporter genes; Pest resistance