New bioinsecticide component

This natural peptide derived from 10 years of research in the BF2I lab and is a natural plant entomotoxin from alfalfa (Medicago truncatula). These kind of peptides are legume toxic molecules, protecting them against most insect pests. They could be called venoms plants due to their mode of action. The study of the genome of the model legume, Medicago truncatula alfalfa resulted in the discovery of a very effective insecticidal toxin.

STAGE OF DEVELOPMENT
To date, the peptide insecticidal activity was determined using in vitro bioassays (binding tests on cereal weevil membranes and toxicity on insect cell cultures). These experiments revealed a very high toxicity of the natural peptide, ten times more effective than its parent present in pea seeds.
It is now necessary to test entomotoxic peptide on insect pests (weevil, termite, grape worm, codling moth) and vector pests (mosquito and tiger mosquito).

ADVANTAGES / NOVELTY
This peptide is a natural molecule with low toxicity. Indeed it is present in a plant (alfalfa) regularly consumed by humans and mammals with no known demonstration of toxicity or allergenicity. Its mode of action is unique, active per os. It could also be used in organic farming.

APPLICATIONS
• Farm market and bioinsecticides : foodstuff protection (cereal flour and cereal seeds) with the natural peptide introduction
• Market of biological biocides: protection against mosquito disease vectors, such as the tiger mosquito.

INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
Patent pending in PCT
Priority date : October 10th 2013 (FR 13 6236)

TYPE OF COLLABORATION
PULSALYS is looking for industrial partners interested in getting a license of this patent to develop a bioinsecticide targetting pests in crops or disease vectors.

CONTACT
Tania CSAKI - Tech Transfer Officer
+33(0)4.26.23.56.94
Email : tania.csaki@pulsalys.fr