Cysteine-free kv channel blocking peptide for brown planthopper control
A novel cysteine-free conopeptide targets voltage-gated potassium channels in Nilaparvata lugens, providing a potent and selective bioinsecticide. Its stability and efficient production make it a promising solution for agricultural pest management.
Overview
This innovative solution involves a cysteine-free conopeptide that blocks voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels in Nilaparvata lugens (Brown Planthopper, BPH). By binding within the pore region of Shaker-type Kv channels, the peptide prevents potassium conductance, leading to sustained neuronal depolarization, hyperexcitation, paralysis, and eventual death of the pest. This mechanism not only offers a novel approach to pest control but also promises high specificity with minimal toxicity to non-target organisms.
Technical specifications
- Peptide Structure: Cysteine-free, α-helical conopeptide
- Mode of Action: Blocks potassium conductance in Shaker-type Kv channels, preventing neuronal repolarization
- Efficacy: Demonstrates nanomolar-range lethality against BPH with no mammalian cell toxicity at micromolar levels
- Production: Eliminates need for oxidative folding, enabling efficient synthesis and recombinant production
- Future Validation: Includes testing peptide stability under BPH gut conditions, improving oral delivery through encapsulation methods, and ensuring selectivity against non-target species using mRNA display and electrophysiological assays
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 5, having demonstrated nanomolar-range lethality in injection assays and lacking mammalian toxicity. Future steps involve enhancing oral delivery, ensuring environmental selectivity, and optimizing scalable production through microbial expression systems.
About Anomaly Bio
Anomaly Bio is a Singapore-based biotechnology company that utilizes synthetic biology, advanced fermentation, and strain engineering to produce bio-based ingredients. By designing optimized metabolic pathways, the company engineers microorganisms to transform readily available feedstocks, such as sugars, into high-value molecules. This approach turns microbes into efficient micro-factories, offering a scalable and on-demand alternative to traditional, extraction-based manufacturing methods. The company focuses on developing next-generation inputs for industries including crop protection, nutrition, and personal care.
By replacing fragile, legacy supply chains with localized and resilient biomanufacturing capabilities, Anomaly Bio aims to redefine the production of essential ingredients. This technology provides a viable, sustainable manufacturing solution that can be deployed globally to support various trade networks. The company has secured significant pre-seed funding to expand its R&D team in metabolic engineering and to establish its own laboratory and pilot-scale production facilities in Singapore.
delivered to your inbox.