c 12 Genetically Engineered Crops ● Genetically engineered crops have desirable genes (as of insect/pest resistance, giving better yield) incorporated in them. ● Genetically modified crops have ○ more tolerance to abiotic stresses such as cold, drought, salinity, heat, etc. ○ insect/pest resistance ○ reduced post-harvest losses ○ efficient mineral usage by plants ○ enhanced nutritional value (e.g., Vitamin A rich rice) Bt Cotton ● Bacillus thuringiensis is a bacterium that produces proteins to kill certain insects such as lepidopterans (armyworm), coleopterans (beetles), and dipterans (flies/ mosquitoes). B. thuringiensis produces a protein crystal containing a toxic protein (inactivated state). ● Inactivated toxin Activated in the presence of Alkaline PH activated toxin (gut of insect) ● Activated toxin binds to the epithelial cells in the midgut of insect and creates pores that cause lyses and swelling and eventually death of insect. ● This toxin is encoded by a gene called Cry ...