S137B: The critical role of natural products chemistry in the development of safe, effective, microbial biopesticides

Many factors play into the development of microbial biopestides, but among the most important is a fundamental understanding of therole of natural products in terms of efficacy.  Thousands of microbes have been cited as showing promising biological activity against agriculturally relevant pests but this is not always followed up with a thorough understanding of metabolites contributing to the bioactivity. Chemical characterization allows the development of analytical tools which help drive towards stable, reproducibly efficacious products.  This knowledge is also needed to understand the mode of action which can be predictive of concerns such as the risk of resistance development.  From a product stewardship viewpoint, safety to both consumers and beneficial organisms can be ensured with this knowledge.  A number of examples will be used to illustrate the importance of this foundation in the development of safe, effective microbial pesticides.