VBC, LidoChem reach global licensing agreement for new biocontrol technology to protect against nematodes

Valent BioSciences Corporation (VBC) recently announced it has reached a global licensing agreement with LidoChem, Inc. for a novel, patented biocontrol technology for use in corn, soybean, and other crops. Based on a unique strain of the beneficial soil microorganism Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, it will be developed by VBC in collaboration with Valent U.S.A. Corporation. VBC and Valent U.S.A. are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Sumitomo Chemical, a global leader of conventional plant protection and biorational technologies for agriculture.

The product will be marketed and sold initially as a biological nematode seed treatment for the U.S. market by Valent U.S.A. The U.S. EPA registration is expected this year. VBC plans to focus future research and development on new formulations and expansions of the technology into other applications, crops, and regions.

"This agreement brings another important and innovative biorational technology to our growing platform for soil-based innovation," said Ted Melnik, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of VBC. "The unique mode of action of the product brings growers a potent and valuable tool in their battle against soilborne pests."

LidoChem, Inc. Chief Executive Officer Don Pucillo said the agreement with VBC delivers on a key performance goal for the product.

"Strong technologies require strong development and distribution partners," said Pucillo. "LidoChem is pleased to have reached an agreement with a trusted company known around the world for delivering consistent, measurable value to growers through innovative biorational technologies.”

Valent U.S.A. Business Unit Director Trey Soud said the LidoChem deal further expands the Valent seed protection solutions available to growers.

“This exciting new technology will be a strong complement to our well-established seed protection portfolio,” said Soud. “The addition of this biological strengthens our ability to provide growers with control against nematodes and provide them with complete seed treatment solutions. Longer term, we are looking aggressively at various application methods that can deliver this technology and others more conveniently for growers.”