An Oxford University spin out research firm has discovered a new generation of synthetic and biological herbicidal compounds, which could reduce chemical use.

Its team of scientists have identified novel “amplifier” molecules which will potentially allow farmers to reduce the amount or concentration of herbicides currently used. 

In the past three years the Moa Technology platform has screened more than 830,000 compounds and discovered 80 new herbicidal modes of action.

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Pilot field trials of the amplifier are currently being tested in both the UK and Australia to evaluate how it may help reduce herbicide use rates against annual grassweeds, which prove to be damaging and challenging weeds to control.

Moa CEO Dr Virginia Corless notes: “We are excited to discover this entirely new category of weed control solutions to help solve a real and immediate problem for farmers and the environment globally.

“Our groundbreaking technology platforms and proprietary data continue to produce valuable new insights and discoveries.”

The technology also opens new opportunities for biologicals to play a greater role in agricultural weed control.

Bioherbicides are still one of the smallest sub-sectors in the biologicals space, due to the difficulty of finding natural products capable of controlling weeds safely, affordably and effectively.

Amplifiers offer the possibility of biological-synthetic hybrid solutions which can protect harvests with a reduced environmental impact. 

Partnership with US business

Collaboration with a leading US agricultural solutions business, Gowan hopes to further the development of the new amplifier for a specific active ingredient.

Laurent Cornette, global herbicide asset manager at the firm, said: “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting project. This collaboration holds potential for groundbreaking scientific advancements in agriculture.

“Together with Moa’s scientists, we’re pioneering innovative solutions for highly efficient weed control at minimal active ingredient rates – empowering farmers with sustainable tools for the future.”