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Novel Insecticide Targets

Disclosure #: SF1119
Description: A new insect gene family has been discovered that may be an excellent target for the discovery and development of novel insecticides. Widespread global use of insecticides has resulted in insects developing resistance to many of these agents, creating a steady demand for new products. This target is ideal as it is found in virtually all insects, has yet to be found in non-insect genomes, and insecticides based on this target may limit opportunities for the development of resistance by insects.
Advantage(s):
  • Found in all insect genomes sequenced to date
  • Not found in any non-insect genomes
  • Resistance development unlikely as over-expression of these proteins is lethal
  • Compounds likely to target various tissues at a variety of life stages
Application(s):
  • Development of novel insecticides
  • Implementation of sterile insect technique
Publication(s): Dorer, Douglas R.; Rudnick, Jamie A.; Moriyama, Etsuko N.; Christensen, Alan C.. A family of genes clustered at the Triplo-lethal locus of Drosophila melanogaster has an unusual evolutionary history and significant synteny with Anopheles gambiae. Genetics (2003), 165(2), 613-621.
Patent(s): US7384745.pdf
Licensing Manager: Dr. Nicholas Aliano
naliano@nutechventures.org
(402) 472-3680
Inventor(s): Alan Christensen
Technology Brief: SF1119 Marketing Brief - Christensen - Novel Insecticides.pdf


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