Design of expression cassettes using the cry1Ba1 gene for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties

The most serious insect pest problem in the potato crop in Colombia is the lepidopteran Tecia solanivora , which causes significant economic losses. In this work, expression cassettes were designed based on the cry1Ba1 gene of Bacillus thuringiensis that could confer resistance to T. solanivora for the Pastusa Suprema variety. The elements of the designed expression cassettes were selected through an analysis of scientific literature and patent databases. The main factors that affect the design of this type of cassettes are: proteolytic activation of the Cry1Ba1 protoxin, modification of codonic use, polyadenylation signals and cryptic splicing sites. A tissue specific patatine promoter was used to reduce potential biosecurity risks. The analysis of freedom to operate suggests that the commercial use of expression cassettes designed in transgenic potato plants does not affect the rights of third parties in the territory of Colombia.