7 research outputs found
Not Available
Not AvailableBacillus thuringiensis insecticidal proteins (Bt ICPs) are reliable and valuable options for
pest management in crops. Protein engineering of Bt ICPs is a competitive alternative for resistance
management in insects. The primary focus of the study was to reiterate the translational utility
of a protein-engineered chimeric Cry toxin, Cry1AcF, for its broad spectrum insecticidal efficacy
using molecular modeling and docking studies. In-depth bioinformatic analysis was undertaken
for structure prediction of the Cry toxin as the ligand and aminopeptidase1 receptors (APN1) from
Helicoverpa armigera (HaAPN1) and Spodoptera litura (SlAPN1) as receptors, followed by interaction
studies using protein-protein docking tools. The study revealed feasible interactions between the
toxin and the two receptors through H-bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Further, molecular
dynamics simulations substantiated the stability of the interactions, proving the broad spectrum
efficacy of Cry1AcF in controlling H. armigera and S. litura. These findings justify the utility of
protein-engineered toxins in pest management.Not Availabl