Atoxigenic aspergillus flavus isolates for biocontrol of aflatoxin contamination in maize
Biological control agents using native atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus isolates from Argentina to compete with and displace aflatoxin-producing strains, reducing mycotoxin contamination in maize crops. Aimed at improving food safety through a targeted, regionally adapted disease management strategy.
Overview
This solution offers native atoxigenic isolates of Aspergillus flavus as biological control agents to reduce aflatoxin contamination in maize. Aflatoxins are toxic carcinogens produced by certain strains of A. flavus that infect maize ears, posing significant food safety and economic risks. The approach leverages naturally occurring A. flavus strains that do not produce aflatoxin or cyclopiazonic acid, allowing them to outcompete and displace toxigenic strains in the field. The isolates were identified and characterized from Argentine maize kernels and are being evaluated as a regionally adapted biocontrol strategy.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Native atoxigenic A. flavus isolates sourced from Argentine maize production regions
- Strains confirmed to lack aflatoxin and cyclopiazonic acid production
- Mechanism based on competitive exclusion of toxigenic strains in maize ears
- Molecular characterization of mating type locus (MAT1-1 or MAT1-2) using PCR with specific primers
- Detection of small insertions and deletions in the aflatoxin biosynthesis gene cluster to confirm atoxigenic genotype
- Builds on prior published work mapping the distribution and toxigenicity of Aspergillus section Flavi in Argentine maize
Technology readiness level
The atoxigenic isolates have been identified through prior field surveys of maize kernels in Argentina and are currently undergoing molecular characterization to confirm their genetic profile and biocontrol potential. The proposed validation phase is estimated to take approximately one year to complete. The research team is seeking a partnership that can provide equipment support and funding to advance characterization and field evaluation toward deployment as a practical aflatoxin management tool.
About Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria
INTA is Argentina’s national agricultural technology institute—a decentralized public research and extension organization—with a countrywide network of research centers, experimental stations, and extension units. Co‑located labs and field sites embedded in production regions enable applied R&D and direct engagement through its extension system, offering practical environments for corporate collaboration. A dedicated technology‑linkage function manages licensing, co‑development agreements, and specialized services, while an affiliated foundation can contract and administer international projects to streamline collaboration. INTA is primarily supported by the Government of Argentina under the Secretariat of Bioeconomy, with teams also tapping competitive national and international funding programs. Its technology transfer processes cover IP management, licensing, and support for technology‑based ventures.
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