Project Number: 5430-43000-026-06
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jan 02, 2007
End Date: Jan 02, 2009

Objective:
To identify and characterize proteins in the midgut of coleopteran pests that interact with coleopteran-specific Bacillus thuringiensis toxins, so that the efficacy and host range of coleopteran-specific Bt toxins can be expanded in storage pest control.

Approach:
We will use a proteomics and genomics approach to identify proteins in the coleopteran midgut that interact with Bt toxins. Techniques include 1- and 2-D SDS Page analysis, MALDI-TOF and MS/MS, immunoprecipitation, RNAi, microarray analysis, and genetic cloning and engineering.