Identification and Characterization of Receptors for Bacillus thuringiensis Pesticidal Toxins

Dear Colleagues,

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) produces a variety of proteins with specific toxicities that have been proven to be effective against a wide range of insect orders, nematodes, and human cancer cells. Furthermore, these proteins have the added advantage of being safe for mammals and other non-target insects, making them highly suitable for use as insecticides in the form of sprays or in genetically modified Bt crops. Currently, some 3d-Cry and Vip3 proteins are extensively used to control insect pests and vectors. However, the ongoing use of this natural and safe insect control method is threatened due to the development of insect resistance, especially to 3d-Cry proteins. Currently, binding site alteration is the most common mechanism associated with high levels of insect resistance.

The aim of this Special Issue is to gather information that will expand the of knowledge of the molecules that act as functional receptors of the different pesticidal Bt proteins. Additionally, we welcome studies that characterize whether different Bt proteins which are toxic for a target pest share the same binding sites, even if the molecular identities of these binding sites are still unknown, as they are valuable to predict risks of cross-resistance among these proteins. We are also interested in studies on the alterations in receptor proteins that limit their functionality, leading to resistance to the corresponding Bt proteins. Understanding the mechanisms developed by susceptible hosts to counteract the toxic effects of Bt proteins can help scientists to design better strategies to maintain the long-term efficiency of Bt-based products.

Dr. Patricia Hernández-Martínez
Dr. Yolanda Bel
Prof. Dr. Juan Ferré
Guest Editors

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