Magnetic resonance tools for quantifying fungicide dynamics in plant cuticles
Advanced MRI and NMR techniques to analyze fungicide dynamics in plant cuticles, focusing on succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors. Provides insights into molecular interactions and transport within cuticles, contributing to safer fungicide use.
Overview
The proposed research introduces an advanced analytical approach using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) to quantify and understand the dynamics of fungicides within plant cuticles. By focusing on succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHi), the project aims to elucidate the molecular interactions, transport, and aggregation of these fungicides. This understanding is crucial for assessing the environmental impact and safety of fungicide use, particularly in agriculture. The research leverages the high sensitivity and resolution of these techniques to provide detailed molecular insights that can inform the development of safer fungicidal solutions.
Technical specifications
- Techniques Used: MRI and solid-state NMR for spectroscopic and imaging analysis.
- Target Molecules: Focus on SDHi fungicides, with specific attention to fluorinated compounds due to their enhanced detection capabilities.
- Model Systems: Development of synthetic cuticle models to mimic real plant cuticles, enabling detailed study of molecular interactions.
- Analytical Approach: Combination of MRI and NMR to track fungicide dynamics, providing a quantitative relationship between molecular architecture and cuticle interactions.
- Applications: Primarily targeted at agricultural crops such as soybeans and wheat to improve fungicide application and safety.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 2, indicating that this research is in the early stages of conceptual development. The project involves fundamental research to establish the feasibility of using MRI and NMR as analytical tools for fungicide dynamics in plant cuticles.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university with a multi-campus presence across the Phoenix metropolitan area and a scale that supports interdisciplinary, use-inspired discovery. Industry partners access co-located laboratories, a research and technology park, and innovation centers that house corporate teams with faculty to speed prototyping and validation. A formal alliance with a major hospital system and proximity to a fast-growing manufacturing corridor enable clinical translation and pilot-scale testbeds, while applied student engagements create dependable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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