Novel antifungal leads targeting coenzyme Q binding pockets for crop protection

Overview

This research program focuses on the discovery of novel antifungal lead compounds targeting the coenzyme Q binding pockets found on succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome bc1 enzymes. These binding sites represent a proven mechanism for modern fungicide development, with commercial products in this class ranking among the top sellers for controlling agriculturally important pathogens. The research team has identified multiple novel lead scaffolds, including aryloxazoline and hydrazide series, that show strong activity against key fungal threats such as Fusarium graminearum, Botrytis cinerea, and Phytophthora capsici.

Technical specifications

Key research capabilities and findings:

• Novel antifungal leads based on coenzyme Q binding pockets and their moderators
• Multiple candidates with EC50 values lower than 1 ppm in laboratory testing
• Performance superior to commercial benchmarks including boscalid, carbendazim, and fluopyram
• No cross-resistance observed with boscalid and fluopyram for select candidates
• Effective inhibition of fungicide-resistant fungal strains
• Ongoing synthesis efforts for novel chemical entities as antifungal candidates
• Lead scaffolds include aryloxazoline and hydrazide series (some unpublished)

Technology readiness level

The program is at an advanced lead discovery stage with validated in vitro antifungal activity data. Multiple candidates have demonstrated efficacy below 1 ppm EC50 against major agricultural pathogens and have shown the ability to inhibit resistant strains. The research team is seeking partnership support for high-throughput antifungal screening capabilities and continued lead optimization, with a planned three-year development timeline toward novel fungicide products.