Biological Interactions

Insect control

Chemotaxonomic studies on genera in the Labiatae have helped in the isolation of a range of terpenoids that may be developed as environmentally friendly pest control agents. For example, there are terpenoids in bugle (Ajuga reptans) and skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata) that inhibit feeding in economically important insects, such as the African army worm and desert locust.

Some promising compounds are very complex, and difficult to synthesise, so we look for simpler, related compounds with similar activity. The neem tree (Azadirachta indica), contains the complex compound azadirachtin which has anti-insect activity. With Birkbeck College and Cambridge University we have characterised functional groups (parts) of this molecule thought to be responsible for its potent anti-feedant and growth disruption activity. Plants with simpler compounds having the same active groups are being sought.