Specificity database for bacterial pesticidal proteins against invertebrate targets

Abstract

Bacteria produce a number of proteins with specific biocidal activity against invertebrate pests. These proteins have been employed successfully in biocontrol for decades, by use of microbial sprays and bioengineered crops. While traditionally associated with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and other well-characterised bacteria, the protein repertoire has recently been expanded to include novel structural classes and sources. Here we present a database comprising, at the time of writing, 3963 entries drawn from 466 research articles and 174 patents, documenting activity against 253 invertebrate species across 25 taxonomic orders. This resource includes toxicity and non-toxicity data encompassing both single-component and multi-component protein activities, assay methods, and bibliographic references. The dataset reveals a trend in testing priorities, with a focus on pests of agricultural and medical importance from the orders Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera. This focus, however, highlights important gaps for future research: while primarily tested against Lepidoptera, pesticidal proteins increasingly show activity against other orders, including Hemiptera. This database, integrated with recent nomenclature updates, provides a dynamic resource for researchers and regulators, facilitating advancements in understanding bacterial pesticidal proteins and their application for sustainable pest management.

Keywords: Bacterial pesticidal proteins; Biological control; Invertebrate-active proteins.