History and Discovery of Signum
Signum belongs to the group of fungicides called strobilurins. It was first synthesized by scientists at BASF in 1994. Strobilurins are respiration inhibitors that work by disrupting ATP production in fungal cells. Signum is derived from a natural compound of the same name that is produced by the wood-rotting fungus Signum hygrophorus. Initial studies showed that Signum had broad-spectrum activity against many economically important fungal pathogens.
Mechanism of Action
Signum works by preventing spore germination and mycelial growth of fungal pathogens. It binds to the bc1 complex in the mitochondrial respiration chain and disrupts electron flow, which then inhibits ATP production. By limiting the fungus' energy production, Signum effectively stops further growth and spread of fungal diseases. Signum is locally systemic, meaning it moves upwards and downwards in the plant tissue. This allows it to protect new growth after application. It does not appear to induce resistance in treated pathogens.
Applications in Agriculture
Pyraclostrobin Signum is widely used across various food and feed crops globally to control common fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rusts, leaf spots, grey mould, and root rots. Some of the major crops where it is applied include grapes, potatoes, tomatoes, turfgrass, orchards, cereals, and vegetables. It offers good preventive and curative activity against a broad range of pathogens. The addition of Signum to conventional fungicides enhances their performance and delays the buildup of resistance in pathogens. It mixes well with other crop protection products and does not cause phytotoxicity when used as per label instructions.
Regulatory Approvals and Status
Pyraclostrobin received initial regulatory approval from the EPA in 2000 for use on grapes. Since then, it has gained registrations and maximum residue levels in over 80 countries. The tolerances established also allow Signum treated crops to be exported globally without any trade issues. The WHO has classified it under the least hazardous category and approved an acceptable daily intake level for consumers. Some review reports have noted its safety for workers and negligible environmental impact owing to its quick degradation in the soil and water. Overall, Signum fulfills the stringent regulatory norms with its favorable toxicological and environmental risk profile.
Commercial and Production
Signum was first by BASF under the trade name Cabrio in 2001. It has grown to become one of their top-selling fungicide products globally. The worldwide Signum size is estimated at over $450 million annually. BASF currently maintains its patent and is the sole producer of technical grade Signum. They produce it via a multi-step synthesis at their production facility in Germany. The technical grade is then sold to formulator companies worldwide who further transform it into various end-use formulations like wettable granules and soluble concentrates for the agricultural industry.
Future Outlook
Pyraclostrobin has become a key component in resistance management programs for many crops. Owing to its stability, broad spectrum activity and excellent disease control, it continues to be widely adopted globally. New crop registrations are expected based on ongoing research trials. Formulators are constantly developing novel formulations to improve its rain fastness and expand the window of application. While newer fungicide classes are being discovered, Signum is likely to retain its status as a frontline fungicide option due to proven field performance over the past two decades and negligible resistance issues reported. Overall, Signum appears well positioned to remain an important crop protection tool for growers worldwide in the foreseeable future.
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