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Expression of cry genes in Bacillus thuringiensis biotechnology

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Abstract

Bacillus thuringiensis is a gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium that produces insecticidal crystal proteins during sporulation. The production of these crystals results primarily from the expression of cry genes. In this review, we focus on the expression and application of cry genes directed by both cry gene promoters and non-cry gene promoters in different hosts. However, not all cry genes and niches are compatible with B. thuringiensis. New delivery systems offsetting the current limitations in B. thuringiensis application are needed to improve Cry production, niche fitness, and persistence. This review examines currently available research and highlights areas in need of further research and development for more effective production and utilization of Cry insecticidal proteins.

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Funding

This work was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation (31530095) and the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2017YFD0200400).

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  1. State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China

    Qi Peng, Qingyue Yu & Fuping Song

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  1. Qi Peng
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  2. Qingyue Yu
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Peng, Q., Yu, Q. & Song, F. Expression of cry genes in Bacillus thuringiensis biotechnology . Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 103, 1617–1626 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-018-9552-x

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