Endophytic entomopathogenic fungi combined with plant growth regulators for expanded crop protection
Montana BioAgriculture is developing endophytic fungi that colonize wheat and barley plants to control both wheat stem sawfly and Fusarium head blight in a single strain. Combining these beneficial fungi with Valent's microbial and plant growth regulator products aims to deliver multi-purpose crop protection solutions that outperform single-use products in cereals.
Overview
Montana BioAgriculture Inc. (MBAI) is advancing a biological crop protection solution based on endophytic entomopathogenic fungi, specifically Beauveria strains that naturally colonize wheat and barley plants. These fungi offer a dual-action benefit: they act as insect pathogens against wheat stem sawfly while simultaneously inducing systemic disease resistance that limits Fusarium head blight. By combining these endophytic fungi with existing Valent microbial products and plant growth regulators (PGRs), the partnership aims to create integrated solutions that address multiple crop challenges simultaneously, providing growers with broader protection and Valent with stronger market positioning in cereals.
Technical specifications
- Dual-action fungal strains: Three Beauveria strains isolated from wheat stem sawfly larvae inside wheat stems have been confirmed virulent against sawfly, capable of colonizing wheat plants, inducing systemic disease resistance, and reducing Fusarium head blight.
- Molecular characterization: Genes and small RNAs upregulated during endophytic colonization have been identified, enabling deeper understanding of plant-fungus interactions.
- Production and formulation expertise: Efficient spore production and formulation methods have been developed, supported by more than 30 years of experience in isolating, formulating, and producing entomopathogenic fungi at commercial scale.
- Proposed combination strategy: Bioassays will evaluate MBAI strains paired with two widely used Valent PGR or microbial products, with gene expression analysis at two time points to uncover synergistic responses between endophytes and existing products.
- Field validation: Research-scale field trials are planned to confirm efficacy under real-world growing conditions.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at an intermediate stage of development. Laboratory screening, strain identification, molecular characterization, and initial formulation work have been completed under USDA SBIR Phase I funding. MBAI plans to submit a USDA SBIR Phase II proposal, which, if awarded, would provide $600,000 over two years to support field trials and combination product validation. Interim funding from Valent would accelerate development and strengthen the Phase II application. The team has a proven track record of delivering EPA-approved bioinsecticides and scaling fungal production commercially, positioning the combined endophyte-plus-PGR product concept for advancement toward regulatory and commercial readiness.
About Montana BioAgriculture Inc.
Montana BioAgriculture Inc. specializes in developing biological products for agriculture and forestry by leveraging the interactions between fungi and plants. The company utilizes beneficial fungal endophytes to help plants resist diseases, control pest insects, and increase tolerance to environmental stresses such as drought and high temperatures. Their technological approach integrates fungal strain isolation, targeted screening, and the development of delivery systems, such as seed treatments, to create practical biological solutions. By applying academic research to commercial applications, they work to improve crop resilience and health, with a specific focus on significant challenges in wheat production.
The company provides critical value to partners and agricultural stakeholders by offering contracted research, development, and analytical services to companies creating microbial products. Their expertise spans fungal production technology, genotyping, field trials, and regulatory compliance. With a team experienced in applied mycology and bioprocess engineering, the company has a strong record of success, including the development of EPA-approved bioinsecticides and collaboration on large-scale production methods. They have been recognized for their R&D efforts through significant Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants from the USDA and the National Science Foundation, underscoring their commitment to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and agricultural utility.
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