Research Projects

Research Organisation Partners

•  Institut “Jožef Stefan”, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana
•  Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Kongresni trg 12, 1000 Ljubljana
•  Interkorn semenarstvo in obnovljivi viri d.o.o., Gančani 94, 9231 Beltinci
•  ELVEZ, proizvodnja kabelske konfekcije in brizganje plastičnih mas, d.o.o., Ulica Antona Tomšiča 35, 1294 Višnja Gora

Co-financing Organisation

• INTERKORN semenarstvo in obnovljivi viri d.o.o.

Abstract

An innovative method for the sterilization of seeds is proposed. The research will be performed in collaboration with four complementary groups, i.e., a public research institute, the biotechnical faculty, the largest Slovenian seed producer, Inerkorn Ltd., and the company Elvez Ltd. The innovative method will rely on the release of highly reactive oxidizing species upon the interaction of the vector with the biological matter (seeds). The vector delivering highly oxidizing species to germs (fungi and bacteria) will be an inorganic acid that is stable in a limited range of conditions but decomposes spontaneously at conditions useful for seed treatment. The highly reactive oxidizing radicals will be formed upon interacting with the seeds and will ensure rapid inactivation of germs. The preliminary results provided proof of concept since we obtained sterility after less than a minute of exposure to the water solution of the vector at a concentration in the range of 10 ppm. We shall first determine the range of parameters suitable for the synthesis of the inorganic acid. Then, we shall measure the inactivation curves for selected fungi that are most relevant for the contamination of corn seeds. We shall elaborate on the method for spraying the water solution with the appropriate concentration of the vector on the seeds in a semi-continuous mode using our professional, 8 m long device for seed treatments. Once the technique is verified, we shall treat bunches of seeds, and the project partner Interkorn will sow them on the fields. As control samples, corn treated according to several traditional methods for seed preparation before sowing will be sowed on the fields. We shall monitor the development of the plants from germination to harvesting. The scientific aspects will be published in renowned topical journals, and we shall file a patent application if the results are according to the hypothesis. The dissemination will include media coverage.

Researchers

• External link to Prof. dr. Marjana Regvar Open in new window 
• External link to Prof. dr. Katarina Vogel-Mikuš  Open in new window
• External link to Asist. dr. Jure Mravlje  Open in new window
• External link to Asist. dr. Valentina Bočaj Open in new window 
• External link to Teja Pelko Open in new window

The phases of the project and their realization

1. Laboratory optimization of PNA synthesis

Study of PNA synthesis and stability at different temperatures and pH values.

Development of a protocol for the safe storage and use of PNA in seed sterilization.

2. Testing of seed sterilization in the laboratory

Determination of the optimal concentration of PNA for effective removal of bacteria and fungi such as Fusarium, Penicillium, and Mucor.

Measurement of the effect of treatment on seed germination and early plant growth.

Analysis of possible changes in the nutritional value of seeds after treatment.

3. Development of semi-industrial technology for seed sterilization

Development of a device for applying PNA using a professional sprayer (nebulizer), which will enable the homogeneous treatment of larger quantities of seeds.

Adaptation of the existing Interkorn system for performing the sterilization process before sowing.

4. Field testing on agricultural land

Sowing of PNA-treated seeds on test fields and monitoring their development under different growing conditions.

Comparison of germination, growth rate, and final yield with untreated and standard-treated seeds.

5. Analysis of the economic and environmental acceptability of the method

Assessment of cost-effectiveness compared to current seed sterilization methods.

Assessment of the potential impact of the method on sustainable agriculture and reduction of chemical use.