Isomerase and BugBiome partner to advance sustainable crop protection via targeted novel bioinsecticides

Isomerase has formed a strategic partnership with BugBiome, which is focused on the discovery of novel targeted bioinsecticides via insect behavioural screening. This collaboration aims to accelerate the discovery of bioactive compounds from unexplored microbial sources, combining Isomerase’s extensive collection of actinomycetes with BugBiome’s insect behavioural screening platform, AvidX, to develop sustainable agricultural solutions.

As part of this partnership, BugBiome will gain non-exclusive research access to Isomerase’s collection of approximately 7,000 proprietary actinomycete strains. These strains have demonstrated a remarkable range of activity, having been tested against a variety of pathogens and evaluated for various biological activities, including cytostatic, enzyme inhibition, and virus inhibition. The strains are part of Isomerase’s extensive microbial collection, which includes nearly 20,000 prokaryotic and eukaryotic isolates. BugBiome will evaluate the actinomycete strains to identify actives that effectively deter important crop pests while protecting beneficial organisms and minimizing environmental impact.

BugBiome has the option to secure exclusive commercial rights to strains of particular interest. Financial terms of the deal are not being disclosed.

This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of both companies to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides, protect ecosystems, and deliver innovative solutions to meet global agricultural challenges.

Dr Alicia Showering. CEO and co-founder of BugBiome, said "We are thrilled to partner with Isomerase and gain access to their extensive collection of over 7,000 high-quality actinomycete strains. This partnership complements BugBiome’s in-house bioprospecting efforts, and we’re excited about its potential to generate targeted bioinsecticides that can protect significant crops globally."