ARS | Publication request: GLUCOSINOLATES AS NATURAL PESTICIDES

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: April 30, 1998
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Glucosinolates are a group of secondary compounds produced by members of the Brassicaceae (the crucifer or mustard family) and at least 10 other dicotyledonous plant families. Glucosinolates are enzymatically hydrolyzed by thioglucosidase glucohydrolase to form substituted isothiocyanates, nitriles, and thiocyanates. Glucosinolates and their hydrolysis products have long been of pharmacological and toxicological interest and are primarily responsible for the characteristic odors and flavors of cruciferous plants. Due to the potential loss of soil fumigants such as methyl bromide, the use of glucosinolate-containing plants as green manures or soil amendments to suppress weeds and soilborne pathogens is currently an area of active research. This article reviews research on the pesticidal activity of glucosinolates and their degradation products.