Shaping the future of crop protection: antibody-inspired proteins as the next generation of biofungicides

Abstract: Antibody‑inspired protein biofungicides represent a novel crop protection
technology combining high efficacy with strong safety and sustainability. These
fermentation‑produced proteins deliver unique, non‑chemical modes of action against major
fungal pathogens, support resistance management, and enable multi‑mechanism disease control within a single solution. Advances in formulation, manufacturing, and regulatory acceptance are accelerating their scalable deployment across diverse crops.
A first product, derived from camelid antibody‑inspired proteins, provides effective control
of key fungal pathogens such as Botrytis and powdery mildew and has received
U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approval with a tolerance exemption. Meanwhile a Florida state registration is received as well as authorization for large‑scale demonstration trials by the Dutch regulator CTGB (College voor de Toelating van Gewasbeschermingsmiddelen en Biociden) confirming its favorable safety profile. A next‑generation formulation, Evoca NG, is in advanced development, maintaining the same active ingredient while improving manufacturing efficiency. Meanwhile, a leading candidate in a second biocontrol program demonstrates strong field performance at significantly lower dose rates, marking progress toward cost‑effective, sustainable disease control across diverse crops.