Ficosterra has taken a significant step in agri-biotechnological research. Its latest study, developed in collaboration with the Chemical, Environmental, and Bioprocess Engineering Group (IQUIMAB) at the Institute for Research and Innovation in Engineering (I4) of the University of León, has been published in the prestigious scientific journal Frontiers in Plant Science. This represents international recognition of Ficosterra’s scientific rigor and its strong commitment to biostimulants, foliar fertilizers, biofertilizers, and sustainable agricultural solutions for the future.
In this post, we explain in simple terms what the study is about, what results were obtained, and why this publication is highly relevant for the agricultural sector.
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most important crops globally, both in terms of production and consumption. However, it is particularly vulnerable to a devastating fungus: Botrytis cinerea, the cause of the disease known as gray mold. This pathogen affects over 200 plant species and causes economic losses exceeding $10 billion annually.
Until now, the main tool to combat it has been chemical fungicides. But excessive use not only harms the environment, it can also lead to pathogen resistance. Hence, the importance of finding natural, effective, and sustainable alternatives.
The research published in Frontiers in Plant Science presents a promising, sustainable, and environmentally friendly alternative: the use of beneficial bacteria (PGPR) that not only promote plant growth but also enhance their internal defenses—acting like an “ecological vaccine” through a mechanism known as Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR) .’
Specifically, two bacterial strains were analyzed, selected and registered by Ficosterra:
These strains were applied to the soil of tomato plants, and their ability to protect against B. cinerea was evaluated through the activation of what is known as Induced Systemic Resistance (ISR), a natural plant defense mechanism.
The highly encouraging results led Frontiers in Plant Science to highlight the study:
Two strains, P. frigoritolerans and P. canadensis, significantly reduced the damage caused by the fungus and also improved biomass production in infected plants.
The study showed that these bacteria activate different hormonal defense pathways within the plant:
Stimulated the salicylic acid (SA) pathway, crucial for fighting infections.
Activated the jasmonic acid and ethylene (JA/ET) signaling pathways, also associated with immune responses.
Additionally, these bacteria reduced oxidative stress in the plants, as indicated by decreased accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA)—confirming their protective effect.
Frontiers in Plant Science is one of the most recognized scientific journals in the field of agricultural biotechnology and plant physiology. Publishing an article in it means meeting high standards of scientific review, originality, and relevance.
Scientific validation of Ficosterra’s biotechnological approach
Demonstration of its potential to reduce fungicide use and enhance agricultural performance
Reinforced positioning in applied agricultural sustainability research
The publication also boosts Ficosterra’s international visibility and opens the door to new collaborations with research centers, universities, and stakeholders in the agri-food sector.
Using beneficial microorganisms as a plant defense tool is part of an unstoppable trend toward more sustainable, efficient, and resilient agriculture. In the face of challenges like climate change, resource scarcity, and the need to ensure global food security, solutions like these make it possible to:
Reduce dependence on chemical inputs
Improve productivity without compromising the environment
Harness the potential of microbiology for crop health
Through this line of research, Ficosterra reaffirms its commitment to responsible innovation, grounded in science and aimed at the well-being of farmers and the planet.
This work would not have been possible without the dedication, talent, and scientific rigor of the research team from the IQUIMAB Group at the I4 Institute of the University of León. Ficosterra extends its sincere thanks to:
Thank you for your trust in our technologies and for your valuable contribution to developing solutions that are shaping the present and future of agriculture.
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