Teratocyte-Mediated Inhibition of Host Cell Translation and Insect Growth

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The mode of action of a protein secreted by teratocytes (extra embryonic cells of a parasitic wasp) will be studied. A cDNA encoding the protein has been cloned. It has been expressed in a recombinant system and work is underway to place it in a plant system. The potential practical application of this gene will be to express it in transgenic plants that would be resistant to insect feeding or in an agent that will infect targeted insect species. In either case, the expression of the gene will be used as a means to achieve selective control of the growth and development of economically important insect pests. Benefits would include reduced pesticide use and related environmental concerns, protection of nontarget species and increased yield resulting from less insect damage.