Bio-herbicides discovery platform using plant-based extracts for sustainable weed and pest management
A bio-herbicides discovery platform that collects and screens plant extracts to identify plant-derived chemicals that inhibit unwanted plant growth. The approach supports sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional herbicides and also explores activity against pests and diseases. Screening includes herbicide, fungicide, insecticide, nematicide, and stimulant assays using weed models such as setaria and lollium, followed by two rounds of lab-based selection to identify potent bio-controllers.
Overview
A bio-herbicides discovery platform that uses plant-derived chemicals to control unwanted plant growth. The platform leverages the natural ability of certain plants to produce compounds that inhibit the growth of competing plant species. By collecting and screening plant extracts, the technology aims to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides. In addition to weed control, it explores potential applications in pest and disease management.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Collection and screening of plant extracts from diverse regions, particularly semi-arid areas, for bio-control activity
- Patent filed with the USDA for promising bio-herbicide leads
- Comprehensive testing for herbicide, fungicide, insecticide, nematicide, and stimulant activities
- Utilizes weed models such as setaria and lollium in the screening process
- Two rounds of lab-based selection to identify potent bio-controllers
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 5, having demonstrated successful screenings and patenting of active plant extracts. Future plans include further validation and refinement of identified leads to advance them toward commercialization.
About INBIOAR GLOBAL LTD
INBIOAR is an Argentina-based biochemical startup that specializes in the research and development of natural, sustainable active ingredients for the agroindustry. Founded in 2010, the company utilizes a systematic methodology to explore plant biodiversity, treating plants as bio-factories to identify and extract novel compounds with herbicidal, antifungal, and insecticidal properties. By collecting samples from diverse environments and conducting rigorous laboratory and greenhouse trials, INBIOAR identifies promising lead extracts and active compounds. Their approach centers on technology transfer, where they partner with industrial firms to transform these natural discoveries into commercial crop protection products, offering an alternative to traditional synthetic chemicals.
The company’s work addresses critical agricultural challenges, such as the rise of resistant weeds and increasing consumer demand for low-residue food products. Their solutions help promote sustainable, low-waste farming practices by providing biodegradable botanical ingredients that comply with environmental regulations. Through strategic alliances with global research institutions and industry partners, INBIOAR aims to expand its reach internationally, scaling its processes to meet the global need for safer and cleaner agricultural tools. By bridging the gap between scientific discovery and market application, the company supports food security while preserving public and environmental health.
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