Cry proteins, of which Cry9C is one among many, act by selectively
binding to specific sites localized on the lining of the midgut of
susceptible insect species. Following binding, pores are formed
that disrupt midgut ion flow, causing gut paralysis and eventual
death due to bacterial sepsis. Cry9C is lethal when eaten by the
larvae of certain insects and its specificity of action is directly
attributable to the presence of specific binding sites in the
target insects.
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