Ciba-geigy Corporation

Novartis Finance Corporation

Vance C Kramer

Michael G Koziel

Gregory W Warren

Stephen V Evola

Nalini M Desai

Steven J Rothstein

Martha S Wright

Erik M Dunder

Kelly S Lewis

Karen L Launis

Gary M Pace

John L Dawson

Janet L Suttie

Cindy G Bowman

Nadine B Carozzi

Lyle Dean Crossland

Ellis J Merlin

Thomas C Currier

Nadine G Carozzi

DNA sequences optimized for expression in plants are disclosed. The DNA sequences preferably encode for an insecticidal polypeptides, particularly insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis. Plant promoters, particular tissue-specific and tissue-preferred promoters are also provided. Additionally disclosed are transformation vectors comprising said DNA sequences. The transformation vectors demonstrate high levels of insecticidal activity when transformed into maize.

Nucleic acid promoter fragment isolated from a plant tryptophan synthase

Synthetic DNA sequence having enhanced insecticidal activity in maize

The present invention is drawn to a novel toxin gene purified and isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis var kurstaki and given the designation CryIE(c). The novel toxin gene encodes a protein of approximately 130 kDa in size and is active against Lepidopteran insects. Also included in the invention are the proteins encoded by CryIE(c). Further disclosed are recombinant genes and proteins derived from CryIE(c). Also provided are biologically pure bacterial strains transformed with the CryIE(c) gene which can be used in entomocidal formulations for the control of Lepidopteran insects. Yet another aspect of the invention are plants transformed with the toxin gene or active fragments thereof, particularly where the transforming sequences have been optimized for expression in maize.

Bacillus thuringiensis gene encoding a toxin active against insects

Four new strains of Bacillus thuringiensis are disclosed which are active against Coleoptera. The novel strains are identified through PCR technology using mixtures of carefully selected oligonucleotide primers that aid in the prediction of insect toxicity profile for the proteins produced by the strains.

Method for characterizing insecticidal properties of unknown bacillus

Baciullus thuringiensis strains active against coleopteran insects

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Hillsborough, NC, United States of America

Vance C Kramer