Location: Invasive Insect Biocontrol & Behavior Laboratory
Project Number: 8042-32000-012-003-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Mar 18, 2016
End Date: Sep 30, 2019
Objective:
The objective is to perform biobased waste product extraction, toxicological evaluation, and in vivo evaluation of optimized phytochemicals. Based on our preliminary in-vitro evaluations, ARS has streamlined the anti bacterial efficacy and physiochemical profiles from pomegranate skin extracts. Phytochemical enriched peel extract exhibited potent in vitro activity against food poisoning causing pathogens. Through this agreement signed between USDA and University of Maryland (UMD), ARS will pursue in vivo and toxicological evaluations so that a new tool can be developed against antibiotic resistance.
Approach:
Based on our preliminary in silico and in-vitro evaluations, ARS has optimized an extraction process to obtain plant based extract with consistent phytochemical profiles. Exhibited in vitro activities against disease pathogens will be further evaluated for mode of action and efficacy. Through this agreement signed between USDA and University of Maryland (UMD) we will pursue in vivo and toxicological evaluations (six-pack) of phytochemicals enriched extract from food waste. ARS will also identify individual phytochemicals from pomegranate extract responsible for antibacterial activities.
