X-ray Imaging Discovered A Natural Mosquito-killing Compound

X-ray Imaging Discovered A Natural Mosquito-killing Compound

Most of the chemicals used to kill disease-carrying mosquitoes can lead to various health hazards. But, Thankfully, a study gives hope for the development of environment-friendly options. Previous researches have found that a strain of naturally occurring bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti)  generates several compounds that kill mosquito larvae and is harmless to most other organisms. Now, using X-ray crystallography, researchers from Grenoble Alpes University have revealed the atomic structure of the most effective Bti crystal and reveal the mechanism to change the toxin parts through mosquito cell membranes. The discovery paves the way to the systematic design of toxins that are safe and effective, for regulating specific mosquito species or disease targets.

Disclaimer: The above article has been aggregated by a computer program and summarised by an Steamdaily specialist. You can read the original article at phys
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