Developmental studies of transgenic maize expressing Cry1Ab on the African stem borer, Busseola fusca; effects on midgut cellular structure.

Background: Busseola fusca is a major pest of maize in Africa but unfortunately is difficult to control using chemical insecticides. Insect-resistant transgenic crops may provide an alternative viable strategy to control this pest.

Results: Recombinant Cry1Ab (1%) reduced larval weight by 60% over the trial period, while larval weight in the control group increased by 25%; no effects on mortality were observed.

Characterisation of midgut digestive proteases from the maize stem borer Busseola fusca.

Background: Insect damage is a major constraint on maize production. Control of Busseola fusca (Fuller) in sub-Saharan Africa is relatively ineffective; the major larval digestive enzymes were characterised with a view to developing future control strategies.

Results: Using BODIPY-FL Casein, maximal activity was at pH 9.