The use of bioinformatics and genomics are becoming increasingly important in the development of new agricultural plant protection products and pharmaceuticals. Such technologies are at the core of Divergence's scientific approach.
Modern genomics allows a precise understanding of proteins and processes essential to nematodes.
This understanding permits the design of pest-control strategies that precisely target unique aspects of the physiology of the nematode. Further, by using a genomic understanding of other organisms, including mammals, plants, insects, and beneficial microorganisms, Divergence can design pest control safe to these organisms. Divergence has initiated a research program to develop unique, environmentally safe anti-nematode compounds through application of genomic information from the pest and its host. These next-generation nematicides can be either small organic molecules applied in the field or molecules produced in the plant through genetic engineering techniques. Divergence will initially create value by identifying and functionally validating nematode-specific molecular targets.