[show abstract]
[hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The quantitative levels of Cry1Ac and the seasonal decline in expression differed significantly among the eight commercial Bollgard hybrids tested. The Cry1Ac expression was found to be variable among the hybrids and also between different plant parts. The leaves of Bt-cotton plants were found to have the highest levels of Cry1Ac expression followed by squares, bolls and flowers. The toxin expression in the boll-rind, square bud and ovary of flowers was clearly inadequate to confer full protection to the fruiting parts. Increasing levels of Helicoverpa armigera survival were correlated with the toxin levels decreasing below 1.8 mg/g in the plant parts. Genotype-independent seasonal decline of the Cry1Ac toxin levels was observed in all the hybrids. Cry1Ac expression decreased consistently as the plant aged. The decline in Cry1Ac was more rapid in some hybrids compared to others. The choice of parental background appeared to be crucial for sustainable expression of the cry1Ac transgene. The implications of variability in Cry1Ac expression and the seasonal decline on bollworm management are discussed.
Current Science. 07/2005; 89:291-298.
