The Stakeholder Forum (StaFo) counts of nearly 100 members with 6 workshops performed. Task forces destined for microbials, botanicals and ds-RNA were established for a more regular interaction with StaFo members. Formulated questionnaires probed into the hurdles faced by national authorities in assessing both active substances and products. Highlights of the questionnaires were (a) the understaffing of most MS regulatory bodies (ii) the lack of personnel with specific knowledge to undertake the risk assessment of LRP (iii) the perception of MS that risk assessment of LRP is more demanding compared to synthetic ones. A report examining current risk assessment procedures per LRP, shedding light on updates, revisions, and ongoing recommendations was prepared. A comparative analysis with US and EU market requirements was included revealing discrepancies in data requirements and test methodologies.
Regarding microbial pesticides, three products (bacteria, fungi, virus) were used as models. The main achievements are:
(i) ecotox testing protocols for aquatic and terrestrial organisms for model microbials have been performed and pitfalls were identified
(ii) A whole genome sequencing (WGS) tool was developed to support risk assessment of microbial pesticides. This addresses pathogenicity, antimicrobial resistance traits and biosynthetic pathways for toxic metabolites. This open tool provides a comprehensive output compared to MOPS (EFSA tool) and it will be supported by training sessions.
(iii) A new risk assessment scheme for microbials based on a combination of decision trees and pathways to harm is under development
(iv) suggestions and guidance on the risk assessment of microbial consortia of different complexity, phages and protists have been produced
Delving into the regulatory landscape of plant extracts and pheromones, thorough reviews and analyses of areas of concern were conducted. Problem formulation based on these products were established and a new risk assessment approach is under development based on decision trees and pathways to harm. Experiments have focused on different model products including single compound botanicals (dihydrochalcone, pelargonic acid), and complex plant extracts (Reynoutria japonica) offering a more challenging risk assessment where advanced analytical approaches are used.
dsRNA for target genes (PSMB5, actin and gfp) were synthesized targeting Colorado potato beetle. Naked and formulated dsRNA was tested. A bioinformatic tool for the prediction of potential undesirable effects on NTOs was developed, and identified NTOs potentially affected by dsRNA. Testing with selected NTOs is on-going. Methods to determine the persistence of dsRNA in soil and plants were established. The data derived are used in mathematical models for predicting dsRNA e-fate. A risk assessment approach combining decision tree and pathways to harm is under development.
Harmonized RA among different LRP groups is under development, fed by the work in microbials, natural products and ds-RNA. Survey with 3600 consumers in Europe was undertaken and results are currently analyzed.
Project partners have participated in several dissemination and networking activities, and 10 papers published. This will continue to improve communication with relevant parties through the website and the digital channels of the project
