The compounds target key proteins in plants, disrupting the photosynthesis process. The Managing Director of Nufarm, Mr Doug Rathbone, said the project offers an exciting opportunity for a novel class of herbicides that will, if commercialised, be extremely valuable to farmers around the world. In addition, glyphosate is relatively ineffective against C 4 plants due to their high nitrogen use efficiency. The project is an excellent example of collaboration between a university, industry and a public research organisation. Equipment, expertise and facilities from all three organisations will be utilised to target this valuable new product opportunity.
Marine organisms are an increasingly valuable resource for obtaining beneficial products for humans.
Possibilities are also arising for pharmaceutical, medical and veterinary applications.