Advances of transgenic Bt-crops in insect pest management: An overview

Abstract

The application ofrntransgenic technology has resulted in useful GM insect-resistant varieties byrngenetic engineering (GE). Crops expressing Cry toxins derived from Bacillusrnthuringiensis (Bt) have been planted globally, and are a vital toolrnfor pest control. The use of notable Bt crops, such as Bt-maizernand Bt-cotton, have resulted in significant reductions of insecticidernuse and clear benefits on the environment and farmer health. Consequently, Bt-cropsrncan be a useful component of integrated pest management (IPM) systems tornprotect the crop from targeted pests. Development, commercial use, benefits andrnrisks associated with the adoption of GM insect-resistant crops and future ofrntransgenic Bt-varieties to mediate crop protection against insect pestsrnhave been discussed in this review.