Researchers at Tokyo University of Science (TUS) have discovered promising new ways to use volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for sustainable pest control and improved crop defense. VOCs are natural chemicals that plants release when under stress, such as during pest attacks. These compounds serve as a signaling mechanism, alerting nearby plants to activate their defenses, effectively creating a natural communication network.
In a review published in *Trends in Plant Science*, Professor Gen-ichiro Arimura and researcher Takuya Uemura examined the molecular processes behind this plant communication. They found that VOCs like terpenoids and green leaf volatiles can either repel harmful pests or attract beneficial insects. These findings suggest a potential shift away from chemical pesticides, benefiting both crop productivity and environmental health.
The study also points to possible agricultural applications, such as using companion plants like mint to release protective VOCs, or developing biostimulants to enhance plant-to-plant signaling. However, challenges remain, including the need to manage dosage and prevent unwanted effects, such as allelopathy.
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