Patented bacillus biocontrol strains for continuous anti-microbial protection of potatoes and tomatoes
Two patented biocontrol strains, Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus subtilis, provide continuous antimicrobial activity against Streptomyces scabies and Clavibacter michiganensis subspecies michiganensis, protecting potato and tomato crops from common scab and bacterial canker diseases.
Overview
This solution consists of two patented biocontrol strains, Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus subtilis, developed to deliver continuous antimicrobial protection for potato and tomato crops. The strains target two economically damaging plant pathogens: Streptomyces scabies, the causative agent of potato common scab, and Clavibacter michiganensis subspecies michiganensis, which causes bacterial canker and wilt in tomatoes. By leveraging naturally occurring biological compounds with demonstrated antimicrobial and sporicidal activity, this technology offers an alternative to conventional chemical treatments for crop disease management.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Two patented Bacillus strains with demonstrated antimicrobial and sporicidal activity against Streptomyces scabies
- Activity also extends to Clavibacter michiganensis subspecies michiganensis for tomato protection
- Biocontrol approach using natural biological compounds rather than synthetic chemicals
- Potential for continuous protection of potato and tomato crops throughout the growing season
- Developed through academic research partnerships, with global patents and trade secrets secured as part of the IP position
Current limitations and areas for further study:
- The specific effects of the active compounds on bacterial cell integrity and cellular biochemistry have not yet been fully characterized
- Field-scale validation data and commercial formulation details are not specified in the available information
Technology readiness level
The technology has progressed beyond the discovery stage, with patented strains developed and initial antimicrobial and sporicidal activity demonstrated against Streptomyces scabies. Further validation is needed to fully elucidate the mechanism of action at the cellular level and to confirm efficacy under field conditions. The current stage suggests readiness for collaborative development, pilot trials, or sponsored research to advance toward commercial deployment.
About CXC IP
CXC IP is a Montreal-based technology firm that specializes in identifying and commercializing intellectual property (IP) across multiple high-growth sectors. The company operates by investing its own capital to develop fundamental research, particularly from academic partnerships like McGill University, into actionable technological advancements. Their model focuses on securing defensible IP positions, including global patents and trade secrets, rather than traditional software-as-a-service (SaaS) scaling. By maintaining dedicated scientific teams and internal laboratory facilities, CXC manages the technology transfer process to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial applications. The company operates across various platforms, including agriculture (CXC AG), quantum computing, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), to address critical technological needs with innovative solutions.
This approach provides value by translating cutting-edge scientific innovation into viable products that address real-world problems. By targeting large, addressable markets and collaborating with established industry partners, CXC facilitates the practical application of inventions that might otherwise remain confined to academic settings. Their work includes the development of biological solutions like biostimulants for crop yield enhancement, biocontrol agents for agricultural diseases, and biopolymer-based formulations that eliminate the need for microplastics in consumer goods. Through these efforts, the company aims to create sustainable economic and functional value for its partners and the broader industry.
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