NEET2019ZoologyBiotechnology and Its ApplicationsActual
What triggers activation of protoxin to active Bt toxin of Bacillus thuringiensis in a boll worm?
Options
- ABody temperature
- BMoist surface of midgut
- CAlkaline pH of gut
- DAcidic pH of of stomach
Correct answer
C. Alkaline pH of gut
Step-by-step solution
Alkaline pH of gut triggers activation of protoxin to activate Bt toxin of Bacillus thuringiensis in bollworm. The toxin is produced in B. thuringiensis in an inactive form known as protoxin. The produced protoxins which after ingested by the insect, the cotton bollworm gets converted to the active form, toxin. This is due to the alkaline pH of the insect's alimentary canal. This simultaneously induces swelling in the gut and the worm dies.