In the sub-area of Plant protection we focus on the development and selection of innovative molecules and on the use of beneficial microorganisms — such as bacteria and fungi — capable of controlling diseases that affect Mediterranean crops.
Many of the active substances and formulations currently used by farmers to control pests and diseases are being withdrawn from the market due to their high toxicity or broad spectrum of action, which can negatively impact insects and other organisms essential to environmental balance — as well as human health. In addition, the increasing resistance of pests and pathogens is reducing the effectiveness of existing solutions.
At the same time, new threats are emerging — pests and diseases for which effective control methods do not yet exist. This reality, already well established in Europe and increasingly evident worldwide, calls for safe, targeted and sustainable solutions..
It is in this context that our team dedicated to the development of new biopesticides— biologically based solutions composed of small molecules (such as RNA interference) or small proteins capable of blocking the interaction between plant pathogens and crops, or inhibiting the growth of these organisms.
These biopesticides are distinguished by their high level of safety for humans and animals, their targeted specificity, and their lower environmental impact compared to currently available synthetic agrochemicals, representing an innovative and sustainable response to the challenges of modern agriculture.
In this sub-area we also study interactions between plants and other organisms in order to better understand and enhance natural resistance mechanisms against pests and diseases. On the one hand, we are looking for, identify genetic or phenotypic traits in plants that make them more resilient and, on the other hand, assess strategies to induce or strengthen this resistance, contributing to more robust and sustainable agricultural systems.
In addition to this research work, we carried out rigorous trials of biostimulant and biopesticides products, testing their effectiveness both in promoting plant development and in the sustainable control of pests and diseases. These trials allow us to validate and optimise innovative solutions, ensuring they perform effectively under real field conditions and deliver tangible benefits to farmers.
Our work is particularly focused on Mediterranean crops, The team is working to improve the quality of agricultural products, which are facing increased challenges due to climate change and the emergence of new pests and diseases. Through the integration of scientific knowledge, technological innovation and agricultural practices, the team contributes to protecting strategic crops and supporting their long-term productivity.
Português
English