Cyclic peptide platform for novel plant-incorporated protectants
A plant-based platform leveraging lyciumin and moroidin RiPP biosynthetic systems to produce cyclic peptide analogs with novel modes of action for crop protection. Includes in silico libraries of over 6 million analogues and validated expression platforms in Nicotiana benthamiana and tobacco BY-2 cell lines.
Overview
This research program harnesses the biosynthetic machinery of Ribosomally synthesized and Post-translationally modified Peptides (RiPPs), specifically lyciumins and moroidins, to develop novel plant-incorporated protectants (PIPs) for crop defense. These cyclic peptides possess unique physicochemical properties and rich native bioactivities, making them strong candidates for new insecticidal compounds with novel modes of action. The program addresses the urgent need for new crop protection strategies by engineering crop plants to produce protective cyclic peptides directly, reducing reliance on conventional pesticide sprays.
Technical specifications
- Established production platforms for lyciumins and moroidins via expression of precursor peptide-encoding genes in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves and tobacco BY-2 cell lines
- In silico libraries containing over 6 million possible lyciumin and moroidin analogues for high-throughput screening
- Proof-of-concept production and purification of 12 structurally diverse analogues from N. benthamiana
- Known lyciumin A activity as an Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, with ACE identified as a preliminary target due to its role in aphid feeding on host plants
- Biosynthetic systems amenable to crop engineering and high-throughput screening for desirable bioactivities
- Planned validation using Drosophila systems for insecticidal and larvicidal testing, followed by chemical genetics for target identification
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development. Production platforms in both N. benthamiana and tobacco BY-2 cell lines have been established, and an initial set of 12 diverse analogues has been produced and purified as proof of concept. Future validation will proceed through Drosophila-based insecticidal screening, ACE inhibition assays, and iterative in silico screening to identify higher-affinity analogs. Top-performing peptide analogs will then be engineered and tested in agriculturally relevant plant-insect interaction systems.
About Northeastern University
Northeastern University is a private, comprehensive R1 research university based in Boston with a global campus network. Its century-old cooperative education model integrates full-time, paid placements with academic study, enabling companies to access vetted talent and long-term pipelines worldwide. Industry collaboration is supported by a suburban innovation campus offering test beds, secure labs, and fee-for-use core facilities, alongside co-located partner spaces. The university attracts competitive federal research funding from agencies such as the NSF and NIH. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, and startup formation for corporate partnerships.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Looking for
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.