Lead generation in crop protection research: a portfolio approach to agrochemical discovery

TLDR

The growing demand for food and feed, coupled with resistance pressures and regulatory changes, drives the need for new crop protection agents, making lead generation the essential engine for maintaining a robust product pipeline. The study argues that a diversified portfolio of lead‑generation approaches is required to mitigate risks and ensure long‑term program viability. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Abstract

The need for increased food and feed supply to support future global demand with the added challenges of resistance pressure and an evolving regulatory environment necessitates the discovery of new crop protection agents for growers of today and tomorrow. Lead generation is the critical 'engine' for maintaining a robust pipeline of new high-value products. A wide variety of approaches exist for the generation of new leads, many of which have demonstrated success. Each approach features some degree of merit or benefit while also having some inherent drawback or level of risk. While risk for any single approach can be mitigated in a variety of different ways depending on the approach, long-term viability of a successful lead generation program merits utilization of a portfolio of different approaches and methodologies for the generation of new leads. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.