Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 141-153 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 141 Research Report Open Access Phylogenetic Analysis of Bt Strains: Insights into Genetic Relationships and Divergence Bing Wang, Qikun Huang Biotechnology Research Center of Cuixi Academy of Biotechology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: qikun.huang@cuixi.org Bt Research, 2024, Vol.15, No.3 doi: 10.5376/bt.2024.15.0014 Received: 28 Apr., 2024 Accepted: 20 May., 2024 Published: 12 Jun., 2024 Copyright © 2024Wang and Huang , This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Wang B. and Huang Q.K., 2024, Phylogenetic analysis of Bt strains: insights into genetic relationships and divergence, Bt Research, 15(3): 141-153 (doi: 10.5376/bt.2024.15.0014) Abstract This study reviews the current phylogenetic analysis of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) strains, focusing on their genetic relationships and divergence. By analyzing various genetic markers, such as the 16S rRNA gene and multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), we reveal significant genetic diversity and complex evolutionary relationships among Bt strains. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) and recombination events play crucial roles in the genetic adaptability and diversity of Bt, particularly through the plasmid-mediated transfer of insecticidal toxin genes. The paper further explores the applications of Bt in biopesticide development, highlighting its role in agricultural pest control and environmental management. Utilizing whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomics, we provide detailed insights into novel genes and toxins found in Bt strains. Additionally, the study outlines the potential applications of Bt in medicine, plant growth promotion, and bioremediation. I discuss future research directions, emphasizing the importance of further exploring the evolutionary mechanisms of Bt strains, genetic engineering enhancements, and the long-term impacts of Bt applications in various ecosystems. Keywords Bacillus thuringiensis; Phylogenetic analysis; Genetic diversity; Horizontal gene transfer 1 Introduction Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium widely recognized for its insecticidal properties. This microorganism produces crystalline inclusions during sporulation, which contain delta-endotoxins (Cry and Cyt proteins) that are toxic to various insect larvae upon ingestion. Bt has been extensively utilized in agriculture as a biological pesticide due to its specificity to target pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and minimizing environmental impact (Reyaz et al., 2019; Peralta et al., 2021). Bt strains exhibit a diverse array of insecticidal proteins, which are effective against Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Coleoptera, among other insect orders (Barbosa et al., 2015; Quan et al., 2016). Phylogenetic analysis is crucial for understanding the genetic relationships and evolutionary history of Bt strains. By examining the genetic markers and sequences, researchers can classify Bt strains, identify new strains with unique insecticidal properties, and track the genetic divergence and adaptation mechanisms within the species (Wang et al., 2018; Shikov et al., 2021). This analysis helps in maintaining the efficacy of Bt as a biopesticide and also aids in the discovery of novel genes and proteins that can be leveraged for pest control (Lechuga et al., 2020). Phylogenetic insights contribute to the understanding of the horizontal gene transfer events that shape the genome architecture of Bt, facilitating the development of effective biocontrol agents (Baek et al., 2019). This study provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of the genetic diversity and systematic relationships of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) strains. It emphasizes the importance of systematic analyses in identifying and classifying Bt strains with unique insecticidal properties. By exploring the latest advancements in systematic methods, this study highlights the application of these methods in Bt research, helping to develop and deploy more effective Bt-based biopesticides. The study will discuss the impact of systematic findings on the ongoing struggle against pest resistance, providing insights into how these findings can promote sustainable agricultural practices. Ultimately, this study provides valuable resources for researchers and practitioners in the field of biological control, promoting a deeper understanding of the genetic landscape of Bt and enhancing the strategic use of this important bacterium in pest management programs.
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