A new heterodimeric proteinaceous protease inhibitor of approximately 38 kD was isolated from salt tolerant haloalkaliphilic Streptomyces spp.
The purified protease inhibitor was found to be stable over a wide range of pH and temperature.
The molecular weight, amino acids/groups required for activity and protease inhibition profile indicated it to be a serine protease inhibitor probably belonging to the serpin family.
Kinetic data showed the nature of inhibition of trypsin by it to be non competitive type with a low inhibition constant.
The isolated PI showed very good insecticidal activity against the polyphagous insect pest, Helicoverpa armigera affecting various stages of its life cycle and nutritional indices.