Insecticidal and Potato Growth Stimulation Activity of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki HD-1

Abstract

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) produces Cry toxins against pest insects. Cry proteins are conformed by domains related to pore formation and recognition of protein receptors. Plant-induced systemic resistance (ISR) is triggered due to pest attack, it could be activated by Bacillus sp. Tecia solanivora (Ts) is a potato pest, susceptible to Cry1Ac and Cry1B proteins. This paper indicates the endorsement of Bt kurstaki HD-1 (BtkHD1) in relation to Ts control (Cry1Ac and Cry1B proteins), potato growth promotion, and plant ISR due to pests related to the BtkHD1-potato system. To ensure that ongoing quality control of BtkHD1 was maintained, crystal synthesis (microscopy), cry1 genes presence, and Cry protein production were checked. Bioassays Ts larvae and potato plantlets and an in silico analysis of the hybrid Cry1Ac-Cry1Ba protein and potato ISR related to the BtkHD1 infl uence were performed. Bioassay on Ts larvae shows an LC50 of 536 ng/cm2 of diet. A potato growth promotion assay revealed the effect of BtkHD1 on the length and dry weight of stems. The prospective analysis took into account relevant factors affecting the biological function of the hybrid protein focused on domain II. In silico identification of 15 BtkHD1 proteins and 68 potato proteins related to plant ISR due to pests was completed. This project serves to validation of toxicity on Ts larvae and potato growth effect based on BtkHD1, including a forward analysis of the hybrid Cry1Ac1-Cry1Ba1, and proteins associated with this strain and potato for eliciting plant ISR due to pests.