Plant-Derived Antifungal Proteins as Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Chemical Fungicides for Sustainable Crop Protection

Abstract

The escalating resistance of fungal pathogens and the environmental drawbacks of chemical fungicides necessitate sustainable alternatives for crop protection. This research proposal outlines a comprehensive plan to develop plant-derived Antifungal Proteins (AFPs) including defensins, chitinases, and other antimicrobial peptides as effective, eco-friendly bio-fungicides. The project aims to bridge critical gaps between AFP discovery and field application through an interdisciplinary approach. Key objectives include: (1) bioinformatic screening and in vitro selection of potent AFP candidates against key pathogens (Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani); (2) elucidation of their mechanisms of action; (3) optimization of scalable production using heterologous expression in microbial and plant-based systems; (4) development of stable, field-ready formulations using microencapsulation; and (5) rigorous evaluation of efficacy and safety through greenhouse and small-plot trials, including non-target impact assessments on soil microbiomes and pollinators. Over 24 months, the project anticipates delivering two lead AFP candidates with characterized modes of action, scalable production protocols, prototype formulations, and efficacy data. The expected outcome is a viable, sustainable crop protection solution that reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals, minimizes environmental residues, and integrates into sustainable agriculture frameworks. This research has significant potential to influence policy, promote biodiversity, and offer farmers a commercially viable, eco-friendly fungicide alternative.

Keywords: Antifungal Proteins (AFPs), Sustainable Agriculture, Bio-fungicides, Plant Defensins, Chitinases, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), Heterologous Expression, Formulation, Eco-friendly Crop Protection