Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
Specialization: Insect Pathology; Insect Physiology; Insect Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Originally from Valencia, Spain, I earned my B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Genetics from the University of Valencia. I later moved to the University of Georgia (UGA), where I completed my Ph.D. in Entomology and continued my training as a postdoctoral and assistant research scientist. In 2006, I joined the University of Tennessee as a faculty member in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, where I am now a professor and lead the Insect Molecular Pathology and Resistance (IMPaR) laboratory.
My research centers on the insect digestive system, both as a target for safer, next-generation bioinsecticides and as a source for novel enzymes with industrial applications. I have a strong focus on the mode of action and resistance mechanisms associated with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal proteins and RNA interference (RNAi) for insecticidal gene silencing. While Bt proteins are the most widely used bioinsecticides globally and are produced by genetically engineered crops, RNAi technology is expected to revolutionize pest control in agriculture.
Work from our laboratory has helped identify functional receptors for Bt toxins and uncover how resistance evolves in both laboratory and field populations of insect pests to Bt proteins and RNAi. Our research has also contributed to our understanding of insect gut defenses in response to intoxication. I collaborate with scientists across academia, government, and industry around the world to develop innovative biotechnology solutions for pest control and to address the challenges of insect resistance through prevention, delay, and mitigation strategies.
I currently serve as Associate Editor for the Journal of Invertebrate Pathology and on the editorial boards of PLOS ONE, Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, and Toxins.
The overarching goal of my program is to develop more effective, environmentally friendly pest control strategies to support sustainable agriculture and safer food production.
For me, teaching extends beyond the classroom. I have had the privilege of hosting and mentoring over 50 students and visiting scholars. My philosophy emphasizes experiential learning as a key to developing critical thinking skills.
- Insecticidal proteins and resistance: Understanding how bacterial insecticidal proteins work and how insects develop resistance to them.
- Insect gut enzymes: Investigating digestive enzymes to enhance plant biomass fuel production and food and feed digestibility.
- RNA Interference (RNAi): Developing gene silencing tools to control pests and overcoming the mechanisms insects may use to counteract them.
2505 E J Chapman Drive
Knoxville, TN 37996
- PhD, Entomology, University of Georgia, 2002
Juan Luis Jurat-Fuentes
2505 E J Chapman Drive
Knoxville, TN 37996
- PhD, Entomology, University of Georgia, 2002
Originally from Valencia, Spain, I earned my B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Genetics from the University of Valencia. I later moved to the University of Georgia (UGA), where I completed my Ph.D. in Entomology and continued my training as a postdoctoral and assistant research scientist. In 2006, I joined the University of Tennessee as a faculty member in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, where I am now a professor and lead the Insect Molecular Pathology and Resistance (IMPaR) laboratory.
My research centers on the insect digestive system, both as a target for safer, next-generation bioinsecticides and as a source for novel enzymes with industrial applications. I have a strong focus on the mode of action and resistance mechanisms associated with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal proteins and RNA interference (RNAi) for insecticidal gene silencing. While Bt proteins are the most widely used bioinsecticides globally and are produced by genetically engineered crops, RNAi technology is expected to revolutionize pest control in agriculture.
Work from our laboratory has helped identify functional receptors for Bt toxins and uncover how resistance evolves in both laboratory and field populations of insect pests to Bt proteins and RNAi. Our research has also contributed to our understanding of insect gut defenses in response to intoxication. I collaborate with scientists across academia, government, and industry around the world to develop innovative biotechnology solutions for pest control and to address the challenges of insect resistance through prevention, delay, and mitigation strategies.
I currently serve as Associate Editor for the Journal of Invertebrate Pathology and on the editorial boards of PLOS ONE, Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, and Toxins.
The overarching goal of my program is to develop more effective, environmentally friendly pest control strategies to support sustainable agriculture and safer food production.
For me, teaching extends beyond the classroom. I have had the privilege of hosting and mentoring over 50 students and visiting scholars. My philosophy emphasizes experiential learning as a key to developing critical thinking skills.
- Insecticidal proteins and resistance: Understanding how bacterial insecticidal proteins work and how insects develop resistance to them.
- Insect gut enzymes: Investigating digestive enzymes to enhance plant biomass fuel production and food and feed digestibility.
- RNA Interference (RNAi): Developing gene silencing tools to control pests and overcoming the mechanisms insects may use to counteract them.