Novel herbicide targeting lysine biosynthesis via the DAP pathway in weeds

Overview

This research program proposes a novel herbicide mode of action targeting lysine biosynthesis in weeds through inhibition of the diaminopimelate (DAP) pathway. Because the DAP pathway exists only in plants and bacteria, with animals unable to produce their own lysine, selective inhibition is unlikely to harm mammals or beneficial organisms. The program has developed inhibitors of multiple enzymes in the lysine biosynthesis pathway, including MBDTA, the first known dual-target herbicidal inhibitor. Proof-of-concept data demonstrates lethality against Arabidopsis thaliana, annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum), and wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum), with high specificity to plants and no observed effects on mammalian cells or soil microbes. The opportunity centers on validating these inhibitors across a broader range of grasses and crops to establish efficacy and selectivity.

Technical specifications

• Target pathway: The diaminopimelate (DAP) pathway, responsible for lysine production exclusively in plants and bacteria
• Lead compound: MBDTA, the first example of a dual-target herbicidal inhibitor acting on the lysine biosynthesis pathway
• Inhibitor library: An array of inhibitors targeting multiple enzymes within the lysine biosynthesis pathway
• Validated weed species: Arabidopsis thaliana, annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum), and wild radish (Raphanus raphanistrum)
• Selectivity profile: No effects observed on mammalian cells or soil microbes
• Application modes: Pre-emergence and post-emergence treatment protocols
• Synergy testing: Compatibility assessment with current commercial herbicides, including glyphosate
• Crop tolerance assessment: Planned evaluation on rice, wheat, and other crops
• Synthesis: Scaled-up compound production following established synthetic routes

Technology readiness level

The technology is at an advanced early-stage research and proof-of-concept level. Inhibitors of the lysine biosynthesis pathway have been developed and validated for lethality in multiple weed species. Selectivity testing has confirmed safety toward mammalian cells and soil microbes. The next phase involves greenhouse screening against a wider range of grasses to determine efficacy, and crop tolerance studies to establish selectivity. Combination studies with existing herbicides will assess synergistic potential. This validation work will advance the program toward field-ready herbicide candidates with a novel mode of action.