Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 215-222 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 220 CRISPR-Cas9. Comparative genomics thus provides a foundational understanding that can guide targeted genetic modifications to improve Bt strains (Sun et al., 2016). 6.3 Multi-omics approaches for Bt strain optimization Multi-omics approaches integrate data from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to provide a comprehensive understanding of the biological systems at play. For Bt strain optimization, this holistic view can reveal how different genes, proteins, and metabolic pathways interact to produce insecticidal toxins. By analyzing these interactions, researchers can identify key regulatory nodes and pathways that can be manipulated to enhance the efficacy of Bt strains. Transcriptomic analysis can reveal which genes are upregulated during toxin production, while proteomic studies can identify the proteins involved in this process. Metabolomic data can further elucidate the metabolic pathways that support toxin synthesis. Integrating these datasets allows for a more targeted and effective approach to Bt strain improvement (Wang et al., 2015). 7 Applications and Future Directions 7.1 Bt crops and sustainable agriculture Bt crops have significantly contributed to sustainable agriculture by reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides and enhancing pest management. The integration of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes into crops like maize, cotton, and soybean has provided effective control against major pests, leading to environmental and economic benefits (Xiao and Wu, 2019). However, the evolution of resistance in some pest populations poses a challenge to the long-term sustainability of Bt crops. Strategies such as the use of refuges of non-Bt host plants and the development of crops expressing multiple Bt genes are essential to delay resistance and maintain the efficacy of Bt crops. Additionally, the environmental safety of Bt crops has been well-documented, with studies showing no adverse effects on non-target organisms, further supporting their role in sustainable agriculture (Romeis et al., 2019). 7.2 Integration of Bt toxins with other control methods To enhance the effectiveness of Bt crops and manage resistance, integrating Bt toxins with other pest control methods is crucial. This integrated pest management (IPM) approach includes the use of biological control agents, crop rotation, and the application of other biopesticides (Gassmann and Reisig, 2022). By combining these methods, the pressure on pests to develop resistance to Bt toxins can be reduced, thereby prolonging the effectiveness of Bt crops. Moreover, the conservation of natural enemies through reduced use of chemical insecticides in Bt crop fields can further enhance pest control and contribute to a more balanced ecosystem. 7.3 Emerging trends in Bt genomic research Recent advancements in Bt genomic research are paving the way for the development of next-generation Bt crops. Researchers are focusing on understanding the molecular mechanisms of Bt toxin resistance in pests, which involves studying mutations in genes related to toxin activation, binding, and insect immune responses (Jurat-Fuentes et al., 2021). This knowledge is crucial for engineering novel Bt toxins with enhanced efficacy and reduced likelihood of resistance development. Additionally, the creation of chimeric Bt proteins by combining domains from different Cry proteins is an emerging trend that holds promise for producing more potent insecticidal proteins (Koch et al., 2015). Future research will likely explore the use of Bt crops in combination with other genetic technologies, such as RNA interference (RNAi), to target a broader range of pests and further improve pest management strategies. Acknowledgments I appreciate Dr Wang F. from the Hainan Institution of Biotechnology for her assistance in references collection and discussion for this work completion. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The author affirms that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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