Trans-2-octenal: natural multi-target pesticide for fungi, nematodes, and weeds

Overview

This solution leverages trans-2-octenal, a bioactive volatile organic compound (VOC) emitted by the endophytic fungus Daldinia concentrica, as a natural pesticide with broad-spectrum activity. The compound has demonstrated full inhibition and killing of multiple Fusarium species, nematicidal effects against root-knot and lesion nematodes, and herbicidal activity against weeds including Egyptian broomrape. It addresses the urgent global demand for reduced reliance on conventional pesticides due to environmental harm, health risks, and rising pathogen resistance. By harnessing metabolites naturally produced by plant endophytic fungi, this approach provides a sustainable, bio-based alternative for crop protection.

Technical specifications

• Source: trans-2-octenal is a VOC isolated from Daldinia concentrica, an endophytic fungus originally found in olive trees
• Fungicidal activity: Fully inhibits and kills Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, F. o. f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum, F. o. f. sp. radicis-lycopersici, and F. solani; confirmed effective in inoculated loam soil in 100 L pot trials
• Nematicidal activity: Effective against Meloidogyne javanica (in vitro and greenhouse) and Pratylenchus capsici (in vitro)
• Herbicidal activity: Controls weeds in pot and semi-field experiments, including Orobanche aegyptiaca (Egyptian broomrape) in vitro
• Formulation work: Multiple formulations synthesized to enhance soil penetration, water transport, and protection from oxidation; the oxidative breakdown product (2-octanoic acid) is inactive, underscoring the need for stabilized delivery
• Application methods under investigation: Irrigation system delivery, soil pouring, and tilling; single pre-planting soil disinfection versus season-long application regimens
• Important limitation: trans-2-octenal is phytotoxic if sprayed directly on plant foliage, restricting use to soil-directed application

Technology readiness level

The compound has been validated in laboratory, greenhouse, and semi-field experiments across fungal, nematode, and weed targets. Soil application in large 100 L pots has confirmed efficacy against Fusarium under realistic growing conditions. Current efforts are focused on field-scale calibration, optimizing formulations to prevent oxidation and improve soil mobility, and defining best-fit application protocols for commercial agriculture. The technology is advancing from controlled-environment validation toward field readiness, with ongoing work to determine optimal timing, delivery method, and dosage for practical deployment.