D3384: Novel Gpp34Ab1-like protein identified with single-toxin efficacy against western corn rootworm

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 6, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

Lindsey Behrens (she/her/hers)

Molecular Analyst
Genective
Champaign, Illinois

Co-Author(s)

MH

Madison Havel

Genective USA CORP
Champaign, Illinois
KD

Katie Dent

Genective USA CORP
Champaign, Illinois

Modern maize production is limited by yield losses from insect pests like the western corn rootworm (WCR, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte). The proteins Gpp34Ab1 and Tpp35Ab1 exhibit strong protection against WCR damage when paired together and were approved for commercial use in 2005, but WCR populations have evolved resistances to transgenic maize expressing the proteins. Accordingly, modern pest management requires the development of new proteins with novel modes of action to provide renewed protection. Here, we demonstrate the single-toxin efficacy of 30 Gpp34Ab1 homologs, including GUN0040A from the bacterium Aneurinibacillus migulanus. Both whole bacterial cells expressing GUN0040A and purified GUN0040A protein fed to WCR larvae resulted in morality without the addition of a Tpp35Ab1-like binding partner. Further experiments in transgenic maize expressing GUN0040A showed commercial-level protection from WCR damage. The novelty of such potent WCR toxins without the need for a binding partner provides new areas of exploration to combat the rising Gpp34Ab1/Tpp35Ab1 resistance of wild WCR populations.