Structure–function characterization of an insecticidal protein GNIP1Aa, a member of an MACPF and β-tripod families

Significance GNIP1Aa is a protein fromChromobacterium piscinae that demonstrates specific toxicity toward Western corn rootworm, one of the most devastating corn pests in the United States. Our studies provide insight into the GNIP1Aa structure and place this protein into an insecticidal protein class, membrane attack complex/PerForin–β-tripod, different from all insect-control products of modern agricultural technology available on the market. Protein activity and uniqueness make GNIP1Aa an excellent commercial candidate for development into a transgenic product. Such a product might have a high potential to combat crop damage in corn and to delay development of resistance in insects. Our work also contributes to the general understanding of the mechanism of action of pore-forming proteins and their target specificity.