Overview
Global soybean production is threatened by an aggressive fungus responsible for Asian Soybean Rust (ASR), which can cause yield losses of up to 80 percent. Fungicides currently control ASR, however resistance to these chemicals has been observed. Dr. Charles Després (Brock University) is developing an alternative mode of action to protect the crop by identifying activators designed to stimulate soybean plant immunity. These chemicals can be used alongside traditional fungicides to ensure long-term global food security. With the help of the PBDF and support from Syngenta, Dr. Després will validate his product. This technology platform holds the potential to enable the agriculture industry to identify new chemicals that will optimize production and protection from ASR, thus facilitating better decision making and higher yields through precision agriculture.