Microbial Biopesticides to Control Disease Vectors and Agricultural Pests

Project Information

MicroBioPest

Grant agreement ID: 101087110

DOI

10.3030/101087110

EC signature date 11 November 2022

Start date 1 February 2023

End date 31 January 2028

Funded under

• Widening participation and spreading excellence

Total cost

€ 2 500 000,00

EU contribution

€ 2 500 000,00

Coordinated by

IDRYMA TECHNOLOGIAS KAI EREVNAS
Greece

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - MicroBioPest (Microbial Biopesticides to Control Disease Vectors and Agricultural Pests)

Reporting period: 2024-05-01 to 2026-01-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The proposed ERA Chair, Prof. George Dimopoulos, completed his PhD at IMBB-FORTH in 1996 and has through a remarkable career path (Harvard, EMBL, Imperial College, Johns Hopkins) become a world-leader in the field of vector biology/microbial biopesticides. He will establish the MicroBioPest research team at IMBB, aiming to develop environmentally safe microbial biopesticides, for tackling vectors of human diseases and agricultural pests. The research plan includes innovative components and state of the art methodologies, for the identification of insecticidal microorganisms, elucidation of the nature and mode of action of microbial bio-pesticide, and, prototype product development. This project and research line coincides with the strategic plan of the IMBB Director John Vontas, an experienced researcher in chemical insecticides (currently coordinator of two Horizon2020 and several industrial projects). This project is aligned with his Green Biotechnology sustainable development goals, and the RIS3 of the Prefecture of Crete, in a region where agriculture and tourism are the main pillars for the economy. MicroBioPest will be supported by structural reforms, such as: (i) the establishment of a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) lab for work with vector pathogens, (ii) the allocation of space within the €60M investment by the EBI, for “Research, Training and Innovation Center” for hosting the sustainable Biotech-Biopesticide Center (BIOPEST) that will evolve from MicroBioPest, and(iii) operational procedures that will strengthen the Technology Transfer capacity of IMBB. The project will form a powerful and inspiring example of brain gain for the broader EU. It will train and educate young scientists towards pragmatic career prospects in Academia and industry. It will form a unique scientific niche in Greece, with significant impact on the society via tailored communication platforms for target groups, and offer alternative eco-friendly solutions to control insect pests.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

During the reporting period 2, the MicroBioPest team, led by Prof. George Dimopoulos, has now successfully advanced the development of novel microbial biopesticides based upon the establishment and screening of the microbial library based at IMBB-FORTH. To date 5 key isolates, each delivering high degrees of mosquito larva and adult mortality (> 90%), have been
investigated extensively. For each of the isolates, different factors have been investigated and elucidated upon, including the identification and preliminary characterization of bioactive secondary metabolites responsible for the insecticidal activity, supported by
chemical extraction and profiling approaches, as well as genome-based analyses to identify biosynthetic gene clusters associated with metabolite production. Putative modes of action and sub-lethal inhibitory effects on vector competency have also been investigated. The integration of phenotypic bioassays, chemical analyses, and genomic data provides a robust and multidimensional understanding of the biological activity of these candidates.
The generation of this wealth of information clearly demonstrates the commitment of the team to high-quality scientific discovery.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The MicroBioPest project continues to pursue pathways towards impact, making progress in the development of environmentally safe microbial biopesticides as alternatives to chemical insecticides for disease vectors and agricultural pests. The project focuses on generating, integrating, and transferring knowledge with potential scientific, economic, societal, and industrial benefits. During RP2, notable progress was achieved across multiple areas, supporting these expected impacts.

Economic and Industrial Impact: By advancing the development of prototype microbial biopesticides, the project sets the stage for the commercialization of these eco-friendly solutions. Future tasks include formulating biopesticides with larval attractants and testing various combinations to prevent resistance, which are crucial steps towards market-ready products. The synergies established with the Horizon Europe Ration project ensure that the new biopesticides are safe for pollinators, addressing a key concern for both regulators and the agrochemical industry. These efforts align with the project's goal of creating a Biotech-Biopesticide Center (BIOPEST), supported by a solid business plan to ensure long-term sustainability and market competitiveness.

Societal Impact: In RP2, MicroBioPest enhanced engagement with the scientific community and the public through workshops, outreach, conferences, publications, newsletters, and press releases. Building on RP1, these efforts increased awareness of microbial biopesticides as sustainable alternatives to chemical insecticides. Workshops supported knowledge exchange and collaboration among researchers and stakeholders, strengthening the sustainable pest management community. Public engagement and media coverage improved project visibility and highlighted its societal value, fostering greater understanding, acceptance, and trust in biopesticide solutions and encouraging their broader uptake.

Towards Sustainable Research Development: The project has laid a strong foundation for sustainable research development by fostering brain gain and capacity building at IMBB. The successful application for competitive grants and the development of a comprehensive Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication Plan (DECP) ensure that the project's outcomes are effectively communicated and utilized. The preliminary exploitation plan focuses on identifying commercially viable products, targeting potential user demographics, and exploring market opportunities, ensuring the sustainability and impact of the project's innovations.

MicroBioPest logo