Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 248-256 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 248 Feature Review Open Access Formulation Strategies for Bt-based Biopesticides Xian Zhang, Shujuan Wang Hainan Key Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, Sanya, 572025, China Corresponding author: shujuan.wang@hitar.org Bt Research, 2024, Vol.15, No.5 doi: 10.5376/bt.2024.15.0025 Received: 02 Sep., 2024 Accepted: 13 Oct., 2024 Published: 29 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Zhang and Wang, 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: Zhang X., and Wang S.J.2024, Formulation strategies for Bt-based biopesticides, Bt Research, 15(5): 248-256 (doi: 10.5376/bt.2024.15.0025) Abstract This study provides an overview of the basic knowledge of Bt-based biopesticides and analyzes the main challenges in formulation development. It introduces current formulation technologies such as dry, liquid, and encapsulation techniques and explores specific methods for extending product shelf life and preventing environmental degradation through microencapsulation and additives. Additionally, the study details the application of synergistic additives and measures for optimizing dosage for different pest targets, with field trials conducted to verify the efficacy of these strategies. Bt-based biopesticides are widely applied in agricultural pest control due to their high specificity and environmental friendliness. However, the effectiveness of Bt formulations is challenged by environmental factors, shelf life, and dosage optimization. This study also examines the environmental and regulatory considerations of Bt formulations, particularly public perception of Bt products, and looks ahead to the prospects of nanotechnology, smart delivery systems, and the integration of Bt with other biological control agents. The aim is to provide new insights into formulation innovation for Bt biopesticides and promote their widespread application in sustainable agriculture. Keywords Bt-based biopesticides; Formulation technologies; Microencapsulation; Synergistic additives; Sustainable agriculture 1 Introduction Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring entomopathogenic bacterium that has been widely used as a biopesticide for over a century. Bt-based biopesticides are considered safer alternatives to chemical pesticides due to their specificity against insect pests and minimal impact on non-target organisms and the environment (Kang et al., 2021). Bt formulations typically contain spores and crystalline insecticidal proteins (Cry proteins), which are effective in controlling a variety of agricultural pests. The increasing demand for environmentally friendly pest control solutions has driven significant research and development in the field of Bt-based biopesticides (Bharti and Ibrahim, 2020). Despite their advantages, Bt-based biopesticides face several challenges that limit their widespread adoption. One of the primary issues is the instability of Bt formulations, which can lead to the degradation of pesticidal proteins when exposed to environmental factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. Additionally, the efficacy of Bt biopesticides can be compromised by the development of resistance in target pest populations. Formulation strategies must address these challenges to enhance the stability, efficacy, and shelf-life of Bt-based products. Recent advancements in micro/nanotechnology and encapsulation techniques have shown promise in overcoming these obstacles by protecting the active ingredients and improving their delivery (Devi et al., 2019; Oliveira et al., 2021). This study will review and analyze the current formulation strategies of Bt-based biopesticides, addressing the challenges associated with their use, and exploring innovative approaches such as the application of nanotechnology, encapsulation methods, and combining Bt with other biocontrol agents or chemical pesticides to enhance compatibility and efficacy. The goal is to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable Bt-based biopesticides for agricultural pest management. 2 Current Formulation Technologies for Bt-based Biopesticides 2.1 Dry formulations Dry formulations of Bt-based biopesticides are commonly used due to their ease of storage and application. These
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