Periodic Reporting for period 1 - LessToxCites (More specific insecticides: harnessing knowledge of insect receptors)
Reporting period: 2023-06-01 to 2024-11-30
Agricultural pest control heavily relies on insecticides, but these chemicals can harm ecosystems, particularly pollinators like bees. In response, Europe has banned several insecticides to protect these essential species. However, this creates an urgent need for new solutions that target pests without harming beneficial organisms. Current options lack the precision needed to protect ecosystems while controlling pests. In this context, the ERC-funded LessToxCites project will develop species-specific insecticides using peptides that target pest neurotransmitter receptors. By adapting existing tools from mammalian research and screening peptide libraries, the project aims to create safer pest control methods. Alongside scientific development, the project explores commercialisation to ensure the widespread application of these innovative solutions.
During the ERC-PoC project, we developed biochemical tools to obtain pure insect neurotransmitter receptors. We tailored the Yeast Surface Display technology for those receptors, and screened libraries of de novo designed protein binders.
At the end of the project, we have identified a set of binders for a key GABAA insect receptor
At the end of the project, we have identified a set of binders for a key GABAA insect receptor
Further research is needed to replicate the results on key pest species receptors. This will require additional maturation funding, before translation into a product