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Precocene I, derived from the perennial grass Desmosstachya bipinnata, has attracted attention for its potential application in agricultural pest management due to its selective effectiveness against pests, while sparing beneficial non-target organisms such as earthworms. A study featured in Molecules delved into the isolation and bioactive properties of Precocene I, particularly emphasizing its inhibitory effects on Spodoptera litura larvae, commonly known as the Oriental armyworm. The findings revealed that Precocene I could significantly increase mortality rates among these larvae at various developmental stages, even at low doses. Importantly, the research demonstrated that Precocene I was non-lethal to non-target species like the earthworm Eisenia fetida when used in pest-controlling concentrations, highlighting its suitability as an eco-friendly pesticide option[1]. Another investigation explored the creation, characterization, and antifungal capabilities of Precocene I and its derivatives, aiming to introduce environmentally benign alternatives to traditional pesticides. These compounds were tested for their effectiveness against fungi such as Aspergillus niger and Rhizoctonia solani, both known for impacting agricultural yields adversely. The results underscored the notable antifungal properties of Precocene I and its regioisomers, suggesting their potential utility in formulating new fungicidal agents[2]. Furthermore, Precocene I and Precocene II have been recognized as key constituents in the essential oils from Ageratum conyzoides, a plant noted for its insect-repellent qualities. A piece of research published in Insects examined the insecticidal and histopathological impacts of this plant's extracts on the dengue fever vector Aedes aegypti. The inclusion of Precocene I in these oils was linked to their potent insecticidal activity, with certain extracts displaying considerable effectiveness against adult female mosquitoes of Aedes aegypti. This underscores the potential of Precocene I in natural product-based approaches for managing pests and disease vectors[3].

Reference

1. Senthil-Nathan, S., Hunter, W. B., Krutmuang, P., Abdel-Megeed, A., Shawer, R., & Ghaith, A. (2021). Efficacy of Precocene I from Desmosstachya bipinnata as an Effective Bioactive Molecules against the Spodoptera litura Fab. and Its Impact on Eisenia fetida Savigny. Molecules, 26(21), 6384. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26216384

2. Ramadan, K. M. A., El-Beltagi, H. S., Iqbal, Z., & Bendary, E. S. A. (2022). The Synthesis, Fungicidal Activity, and in Silico Study of Alkoxy Analogues of Natural Precocenes I, II, and III. Molecules, 27(21), 7177. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27217177

3. Pintong, A., Ampawong, S., Komalamisra, N., Sriwichai, P., Popruk, S., & Ruangsittichai, J. (2020). Insecticidal and Histopathological Effects of Ageratum conyzoides Weed Extracts against Dengue Vector, Aedes aegypti. Insects, 11(4), 224. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects11040224

GHS Hazard Statements

H302 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem