Correct option is B
The correct answer is: (B) The inactive protoxin gets converted into active form in the pest gut due to its alkaline pH
Explanation:
Bt-toxin (Bacillus thuringiensis toxin) is a crystalline protoxin protein produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis. It is not active in its original form. When ingested by insect larvae (especially Lepidopteran pests),
Bt-toxin (Bacillus thuringiensis toxin) is a crystalline protoxin protein produced by the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis. It is not active in its original form. When ingested by insect larvae (especially Lepidopteran pests),
the alkaline pH of the insect gut activates the protoxin. The active toxin binds to the gut lining, creating pores, which leads to cell lysis, gut paralysis, and eventually death of the pest.
Information Key Points:
Gets activated in the alkaline gut of insect larvae
Binds to specific receptors on midgut cells, causing cell rupture
Used in genetically modified crops (e.g., Bt cotton) for pest resistance