ABSTRACT
During the course of evolution, plants have responded to insect herbivore attack by producing enzyme inhibitors specific for insect digestive enzymes. The manipulation of genes encoding enzyme inhibitors in plants has been proposed as a method to control pests. Through the study of insect digestive enzymes, inhibitors have been identified that may protect plants from insect damage. Recent articles provide comprehensive reviews on insect proteinases and their inhibitors (Reeck et al. 1997, 1999). Understanding the structure and function of insect enzymes will facilitate the development of naturally-based biopesticides by providing new candidate genes for plant transformation in the development of insect resistant crops.
