Bacillus thuringiensis Toxins: Functional Characterization and Mechanism of Action

Dear Colleagues,

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-based products are the most successful microbial insecticides to date. This entomopathogenic bacterium produces different kinds of proteins whose specific toxicity has been shown against a wide range of insect orders, nematodes, and human-cancer cells. Some of these proteins are accumulated in parasporal crystals during the sporulation phase (Cry and Cyt proteins), whereas other proteins are secreted in the vegetative phase of growth (Vip and Sip toxins). Currently, insecticidal proteins belonging to different groups (Cry and Vip3 proteins) are widely used to control insect pests and vectors both in formulated sprays and in transgenic crops (the so-called Bt-crops). Despite the extensive use of these proteins in insect pest control, especially Cry and Vip3, their mode of action is not completely understood.

The aim of this Special Issue is to gather information that could expand the knowledge of the structure and function of Bt proteins, as well as to shed light on their mode of action, especially regarding the insect receptors. We will consider papers focusing on the steps that are still blurred within the mode of action of the better known Bt insecticidal proteins (the 3-domain Cry proteins), or those addressing the mode of action of the lesser-known Bt proteins (such as Vip3 proteins, binary Cry toxins, and Mtx-like toxins). In addition, studies on the functional characterization of the Bt proteins with the aim to develop strategies to improve their toxicity, or mini reviews on the current knowledge on any of the mentioned topics, will also be welcomed.

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

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