Diketopiperazine-based plant defense elicitor for induced systemic resistance in crops

Overview

This solution introduces a novel diketopiperazine (DKP) cyclodipeptide as a plant defense elicitor for agricultural use. DKPs are naturally occurring cyclodipeptides found across multiple kingdoms with demonstrated pharmacological activities, and this proposal highlights their emerging agricultural potential, including herbicidal and antifungal properties.

The innovation centers on a specific DKP that has been shown to induce expression of the PIN2 gene marker in three-week-old tomato plants when applied at two dosages (100 ppm and 300 ppm). PIN2 expression is correlated with the induction of jasmonic acid (JA) synthesis through the Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR) pathway, a well-characterized plant defense mechanism. By activating this natural signaling cascade, the DKP helps crops mount their own defense responses against pathogens and pests.

The active ingredient is positioned as a new low-risk active substance, with an industrial manufacturing procedure already developed. The intended commercial formulation is designed for ultra-low volume (ULV) foliar spray applications, making it practical for professional growers seeking sustainable crop protection alternatives.

Technical specifications

Key features and mechanism:

• Active ingredient: A novel diketopiperazine (DKP) cyclodipeptide with no existing patent or registration as a plant biopesticide
• Mode of action: Elicits plant defense through induction of the PIN2 gene marker, which correlates with jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis and the ISR signaling pathway
• Validated dosages: 100 ppm and 300 ppm tested on three-week-old tomato plants
• Formulation target: Commercial plant defense elicitor designed for ultra-low volume (ULV) foliar application
• Regulatory profile: Classified as a low-risk active ingredient, supporting streamlined registration pathways
• Manufacturing readiness: Industrial manufacturing procedure already developed, enabling scale-up for commercial supply
• Sustainability alignment: Biorational approach consistent with integrated pest management and reduced-residue crop production

Technology readiness level

The DKP active ingredient has demonstrated proof-of-concept biological activity, with confirmed PIN2 gene induction in tomato plants at two effective dosages. An industrial manufacturing procedure is already in place, and the formulation is being developed toward a commercial ULV-applicable product. Next steps include expanded field validation across additional crops and pathogen targets, refinement of the commercial formulation, and pursuit of regulatory registration as a low-risk plant biopesticide in key agricultural markets.