Feb 22, 2024

Syngenta, Lavie Bio to develop pest-fighting biologicals

Syngenta Crop Protection and ag-biologicals company Lavie Bio Ltd. are partnering on the discovery and development of biological insecticidal solutions.

The collaboration will leverage Lavie Bio’s unique technology platform to rapidly identify and optimize bioinsecticide candidates, as well as Syngenta’s extensive global research, development and commercialization capabilities.

Insects pose a major challenge to the health of crops worldwide, directly injuring plants as they feed on the plant’s stems, fruit and roots, as well as indirectly by transmitting bacterial, viral and fungal infections to crops — costing the global economy an estimated $70 billion a year, according to the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization. Experts predict such losses will worsen with global warming widening the spread of invasive insect risk and rising resistance to available insecticides.

“Syngenta is a leader in advancing sustainable agriculture and we are thrilled to collaborate with Lavie Bio in biocontrol innovation and bring novel modes of action in the growers’ toolbox to combat insect resistance,” Camilla Corsi, global head of research at Syngenta Crop Protection, said in a news release. “This collaboration underscores Syngenta’s commitment to collaborating with cutting-edge agricultural technology companies, merging digital and experimental approaches to accelerate and diversify innovation.”

Amit Noam, CEO of Lavie Bio, said both companies share a mutual commitment to sustainable farming.

“Lavie Bio’s unique computational capabilities and Syngenta’s vast experience in developing and commercializing innovative products make this partnership significant,” Noam said in the release.