MPI loaded cubosome-based fungicide for rice blast
Introducing an innovative fungicide using MPI loaded cubosomes to combat rice blast disease caused by the fungal pathogen M. oryzae. This approach enhances drug delivery and efficacy, potentially improving rice crop yield and disease management.
Overview
Rice blast, caused by the fungal pathogen M. oryzae, poses a significant threat to rice crops, especially in regions reliant on rice as a staple food. Traditional fungicides often fall short due to incomplete inhibition of infection pathways. Our proposed solution involves using MPI loaded cubosomes, which are lipid-based nanoparticles designed to enhance the delivery and efficacy of antifungal agents. By inhibiting the PKS enzyme, this approach ensures complete shutdown of the fungal infection pathway, leading to better protection and potentially higher yields.
Technical specifications
Cubosomes are structured lipid bilayers with a high surface area-to-volume ratio, which improves drug loading capacity and bioavailability. This precise control over drug release allows for targeted delivery of the MPI-P inhibitor, enhancing its antifungal properties. The use of cubosomes also ensures a sustained release of the bioactive compound, providing continuous protection against fungal infections. Key steps include the synthesis and characterization of the nanocarriers, in vitro efficacy studies, and eventual in vivo validation of the formulation.
Technology readiness level
This technology has reached a TRL of 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment and is moving towards early-stage development and in vivo testing. Further validation is required to assess its effectiveness in real-world agricultural settings.
About Amity University
Amity University is a private, multi-campus research university headquartered in Noida, operating at national scale with extensive laboratory infrastructure and a large talent pipeline. Industry engagement is organized through Corporate Resource/Industry Interaction Cells and advisory networks, and the Delhi–NCR location provides direct access to multinational headquarters, startups, and suppliers. For commercialization, the Amity Innovation Incubator and the Directorate of Innovation & Technology Transfer provide IP management, licensing support, and venture mentoring, while a DST‑supported Technology Enabling Centre connects faculty with national labs and companies. Research activity is backed by competitive funding from Indian agencies such as DST, DBT, ICMR and DRDO, alongside DSIR and UGC recognition.
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