Targeting chemical inputs and optimising HTS for agrochemical discovery

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Chemical Biology
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• High throughput screening (HTS) is a critical tool for agrochemical discovery in major crop protection companies.
• Significant advancements have increased screening capacity from thousands to hundreds of thousands of compounds per year.
• Reduced sample quantities are now required for effective screening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of targeted chemical input design and selection in agrochemical discovery over the past decade.
• To examine developments in high throughput screening (HTS) assays, data analysis, and compound management.
• To identify strategies for maximizing information flow from HTS to accelerate the discovery of new agrochemical products.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature and industry practices in agrochemical research and development.
• Analysis of trends in high throughput screening (HTS) assay technologies and methodologies.
• Examination of advancements in computational tools for data analysis and interpretation.
• Assessment of improvements in compound storage and dispensing logistics.

Main Results:

• The adoption of HTS has led to a paradigm shift in screening capabilities and efficiency.
• Targeted design and selection of chemical inputs have become more sophisticated.
• Developments in HTS assays, data analysis, and logistics have improved the speed and quality of lead discovery.
• Increased focus on maximizing useful information flow from HTS processes.

Conclusions:

• Modern HTS approaches have significantly enhanced the efficiency of agrochemical discovery.
• Integrated strategies encompassing targeted design, advanced assays, data analytics, and streamlined logistics are crucial for success.
• Continuous innovation in HTS is vital for the timely development of novel and effective agrochemical products.