Innovative myosin inhibitors for controlling rice blast disease
Developed new myosin inhibitors from modified phenamacril, exhibiting high efficacy against M. oryzae, the pathogen causing rice blast disease. These compounds offer broad-spectrum antifungal activity with low toxicity, suitable for industrial production.
Overview
Our research has led to the discovery of novel myosin inhibitors that effectively target Magnaporthe oryzae, the fungus responsible for rice blast disease. By modifying the existing myosin inhibitor, phenamacril, we developed compounds that not only inhibit mycelial growth but also prevent spore germination. These compounds demonstrate both protective and curative properties, achieving over 82% control efficacy in field trials when applied at 150 g ai ha-1. With a low synthesis cost and low toxicity to non-target organisms like zebrafish, silkworms, and mice, these inhibitors are promising candidates for sustainable agricultural applications.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Inhibition of mycelial growth with EC50 values ranging from 0.5-1.00 mg/L
- Effective prevention of spore germination with EC50 values from 0.62-0.90 mg/L
- High control efficacy in field trials, exceeding 82% with appropriate application
- Low acute toxicity to non-target organisms, meeting pesticide safety standards
- Cost-effective synthesis suitable for industrial-scale production
Technology readiness level
Our novel myosin inhibitors have reached a Technology Readiness Level of 6. They have been validated in field trials and demonstrate significant potential for controlling rice blast disease. Ongoing efforts include further field trials and optimization of formulations to enhance performance before large-scale deployment.
About Nanjing Agricultural University
Nanjing Agricultural University is a public research university with an agricultural focus in Nanjing, advancing national and regional priorities through integrated basic-to-applied research and field training. Industry engages through experimental farms, field stations, controlled-environment facilities, and pilot processing spaces for prototyping and scale‑up. An industry liaison team supports sponsored research, testing services, and joint labs, while regional demonstration sites speed on‑farm trials across the Yangtze River Delta. Research is supported by national and provincial programs, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Science and Technology. A technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup incubation.
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