Potato Pest Control Using Mesoionic Compounds Against Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current insecticides are inadequate in effectively controlling invertebrate pests in sugarcane, Citrus, and potato crops, particularly due to issues like pyrethroid resistance and the need for bee-safe products, and there is a lack of effective solutions for pests like the spittlebug in sugarcane and leafminer in Citrus.

Innovation Solution

The use of mesoionic compounds of formula I, specifically in enantiomeric excess form I-R-1, in combination with other agricultural active ingredients, for treating plants, propagation material, and habitats to control invertebrate pests through methods like drench or foliar application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current insecticides are used to control invertebrate pests, then pest control is attempted, but pyrethroid resistance develops and efficacy decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepest control efficacyVSAvoidpest resistance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a novel chemical compound with a different molecular structure (mesoionic compound of formula I) that acts through a different mode of action compared to conventional pyrethroid insecticides. This parameter change in chemical structure and mechanism of action allows the compound to remain effective against pests that have developed resistance to traditional insecticides, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining control efficacy and overcoming pest adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the mesoionic compound of formula I with other agriculturally active ingredients such as insecticides, fungicides, or nematicides to create composite formulations. This composite approach leverages the synergistic effects of multiple active ingredients, where the mesoionic compound enhances the overall efficacy while the combination strategy helps overcome resistance issues, addressing both the reliability and adaptability concerns.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If conventional insecticides are applied to control pests, then pest population is reduced, but safety for pollinators like bees is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepest control effectivenessVSAvoidharm to pollinators

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent demonstrates that the mesoionic compound of formula I exhibits selective toxicity - it is highly effective against target invertebrate pests while being safe for beneficial pollinators like bees. This local quality differentiation in biological activity allows the compound to discriminate between harmful pests and beneficial insects, achieving effective pest control without compromising pollinator safety.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the challenge of selective toxicity into a benefit by developing a compound that specifically targets pest invertebrates while sparing beneficial pollinators. The selective action mechanism converts what is typically a harmful side effect of broad-spectrum insecticides (non-selective toxicity) into a beneficial feature (high selectivity), allowing effective pest control while protecting pollinator populations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Productivity

If existing pest control methods are used for spittlebug in sugarcane and leafminer in Citrus, then general pest control is achieved, but specific resistance to these pests remains unaddressed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecrop protectionVSAvoidcontrol against specific pests

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent addresses specific pest challenges by segmenting the pest control approach - the mesoionic compound of formula I is specifically evaluated and demonstrated to be effective against particular difficult-to-control pests such as spittlebug (Mahanarva sp.) in sugarcane and leafminer (Diaphorina citri) in Citrus. This segmented approach targets specific pest species with tailored control measures, enhancing reliability for these particular pests while maintaining overall crop protection productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12532887B2Method for controlling pests of potato plants

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 BASF SE

AI summary

A method for controlling invertebrate pests of potato plants comprises the step of contacting the plant, parts of it, its propagation material, the pests, their food supply, habitat or breeding grounds with one or more compound of formula (I), or a composition thereof.