Biotalys, an Euronext-listed agricultural technology company, has announced the launch of BioFun-8, a new research and development program focused on developing biofungicide solutions to combat fungal diseases in crops.
Dr. Carlo Boutton, Chief Scientific Officer of Biotalys, emphasized the challenges posed by fungal infections, which can significantly hinder plant growth and lead to substantial crop losses. “Our objective with BioFun-8 is to create a biofungicide targeting Alternaria, a major fungal threat in fruits and vegetables, providing growers with effective and affordable crop protection,” he stated.
Utilizing its proprietary AGROBODY 2.0 technology platform, Biotalys seeks to expedite the development of this novel protein-based biocontrol. With market estimates suggesting that a treatment for Alternaria could be valued at approximately $1.1 billion, the need for new solutions is pressing, especially as existing chemical treatments face growing resistance and regulatory challenges. A successful product could also benefit the post-harvest sector, where Alternaria contributes to significant food spoilage.
Despite reliance on chemical antifungal agents, growers experience annual losses between 10% to 23% due to fungal infections, a figure expected to rise with climate change.
BioFun-8 is the latest addition to Biotalys’ portfolio of protein-based biocontrol initiatives. The company’s first biofungicide, EVOCA™, is currently under regulatory review in the U.S. and EU, with potential to lead to the introduction of EVOCA NG, the first commercial product from its pipeline.
Biotalys is also pursuing other research programs, including BioFun-6 for various fungal diseases, a Gates Foundation-supported initiative (BioFun-7) targeting cowpea, and BioIns-2, in collaboration with Syngenta to develop a bioinsecticide.
As the agricultural sector increasingly seeks sustainable solutions, Biotalys aims to establish itself as a leader in the biocontrol market, providing effective alternatives to meet the evolving needs of growers worldwide.