Natural plant resistance inducers: DHA and piperonylic acid for broad-spectrum pest and disease management
Two GRAS-classified natural compounds — dehydroascorbate (DHA) and piperonylic acid (PA) — designed to activate broad-spectrum plant resistance. DHA offers dual nematicidal and resistance-inducing activity; PA induces resistance by transiently modulating the phenylpropanoid pathway. Together they offer a promising pesticide-replacement strategy.
Overview
This solution centers on two natural, GRAS-classified compounds — dehydroascorbate (DHA) and piperonylic acid (PA) — developed as exogenous plant treatments that activate broad-spectrum resistance against pests and diseases. DHA provides a dual mode of action: direct nematicidal activity combined with the induction of plant defence responses. PA works by transiently inhibiting the phenylpropanoid pathway, a key metabolic route involved in plant immunity, thereby triggering resistance against multiple pathogens and pests. Applied individually or in combination, these compounds offer a biologically based alternative to conventional pesticides, supporting more sustainable crop protection strategies.
Technical specifications
Compound 1 — Dehydroascorbate (DHA):
- Dual biological activity: nematicidal effect and induction of plant resistance
- Mechanism linked to accumulation of DHA, which interferes with defence-related pathways
- GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) classification supports regulatory and application flexibility
Compound 2 — Piperonylic acid (PA):
- Induces plant resistance against pests and diseases
- Mechanism based on transient inhibition of the phenylpropanoid pathway
- GRAS-classified natural compound
Combined application:
- DHA and PA can be deployed individually or together to activate broad-spectrum resistance
- Designed as a pesticide-replacement approach using natural, safe compounds
Technology readiness level
The compounds are positioned at an early-to-mid research stage, with the underlying biological hypotheses — DHA accumulation and phenylpropanoid pathway modulation — established and forming the basis for further validation. Future work will focus on confirming efficacy under field conditions, optimizing formulation and delivery, and characterizing the spectrum of pest and disease targets. The natural origin and GRAS status of both compounds provide a favorable starting point for downstream development and regulatory pathways.
About Ghent University
Ghent University is a comprehensive public research university with a strong applied research and innovation culture. Industry collaborates through the Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, where corporate R&D, public research institutes and UGent labs are co‑located, and via a second science park in Ostend. Integration with Ghent University Hospital enables clinical translation and access to patient care environments. Research is backed by competitive European programmes such as Horizon Europe and the ERC, alongside national and regional support from FWO and VLAIO. UGent’s TechTransfer office, working with an Industrial Liaison Network and a central EU funding team, supports IP, licensing, spin‑offs and contract research to accelerate partnerships.
delivered to your inbox.