Q. $Bacillus\ thuringiensis$ forms the protein crystals which contains a toxic insecticidal protein. This protein I. is activated by alkaline pH of the gut of the insect pest II. binds with the epithelial cells of the midgut of the insect pest ultimately killing it III. does not kill the carrier bacterium which is itself resistance to this toxin Which of the statement given above are correct?
A) I and II
B) I and III
C) II and III
D) I, II and III
Explanation
Bacillus thuringiensis froms the protein crystals, which contains a toxic insecticidal protein. Bt toxins are initially inactive protoxins but after ingestion by the insects their inactive toxin becomes active due to the alkaline pH of the gut, which solubilise the crystals. The activated toxin binds to the surface of the midgut epithelial cells thus creating pores, which causes cell swelling and lysis, further leading to death of the insect
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.