New Insights Into Bacillus thuringiensis Bacterium

Modified Bt toxins developed based on understanding Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac mechanisms.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:14am

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A highly textured, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric shapes and botanical spirals in muted earth tones, conceptually representing the complex molecular structures and interactions of the Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac proteins.New research sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind the Bt bacterium's insecticidal proteins, informing the development of modified toxins for pest control.Washington Today

New research has provided deeper insights into the mechanisms of action of the Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac proteins from the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacterium, which have served as the basis for developing modified Bt toxins. However, concerns remain that many growers are not meeting current requirements for maintaining refuge acres with genetically engineered corn.

Why it matters

Bt corn has been widely adopted by farmers as an effective way to control pests, but ensuring proper insect resistance management through refuge areas is crucial to prevent the development of Bt-resistant insects. Understanding the underlying science behind Bt toxins can help drive further innovations in this space.

The details

New insights into how the Cry1Ab and Cry1Ac proteins from Bt work have enabled the development of modified Bt toxins. However, data shows that one in four growers who plant genetically engineered corn are failing to comply with at least one important insect-resistance management requirement, such as maintaining sufficient refuge acres.

  • The new research insights were published in April 2026.

The players

Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI)

A nonprofit consumer advocacy organization based in Washington, D.C. that has raised concerns about compliance with insect-resistance management requirements for GE corn.

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The takeaway

As Bt corn continues to be an important tool for pest management, ensuring growers follow insect resistance best practices through proper refuge implementation remains crucial to sustaining the long-term efficacy of this technology.