Nanocomposite itraconazole compound with sustained-release antifungal activity for vascular wilt disease control
A nanocomposite-based itraconazole formulation (NIC) designed for sustained release and potent antifungal activity against vascular wilt fungal pathogens. The approach uses RNAi constructs to silence functional genes in target pathogens, offering a novel strategy for crop protection.
Overview
Vascular wilt diseases caused by fungal pathogens pose a serious threat to crop productivity worldwide. This research presents a nanocomposite-based itraconazole compound (NIC) engineered to deliver sustained-release antifungal activity directly against these pathogens. Beyond conventional fungicidal action, the formulation incorporates RNAi constructs designed to interfere with functional genes in the target pathogen by silencing or knocking down their expression. This dual mechanism aims to improve disease control while reducing the frequency of chemical applications.
Technical specifications
- Active agent: Itraconazole reformulated within a nanocomposite matrix for controlled, sustained release
- Target pathogens: Vascular wilt-causing fungi affecting economically important crops
- Mode of action: Combination of fungistatic/fungicidal activity and gene-silencing through RNAi constructs targeting essential pathogen genes
- Delivery format: Nanocomposite carrier designed to prolong antifungal efficacy and improve bioavailability at the infection site
Technology readiness level
The research is at an early-to-mid stage of development. The compound has been designed and the RNAi-based gene-silencing strategy has been formulated, with validation procedures and future validation plans focused on confirming antifungal potency and sustained-release performance against vascular wilt pathogens. Further laboratory and field-level studies are anticipated to advance the technology toward practical agricultural application.
About Universitat Politècnica de València
Universitat Politècnica de València is a public technical university with a strong applied research mission and a multi‑campus footprint in the Valencia region. Its on‑campus science park, the Ciudad Politécnica de la Innovación, brings researchers and companies together through shared facilities and industry services near academic labs. Structured talent pipelines connect companies with faculty and students via formal internship agreements administered by the university’s Integrated Employment Service. Located in a major Mediterranean logistics hub—home to Spain’s largest container port—partners gain efficient access to supply chains and markets. Research is supported by competitive European programs and Spain’s national research agencies, while a dedicated technology transfer office (i2T) manages IP, licensing, and collaboration agreements.
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