| Affiliations: | |
| Team Leader: |
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| Faculty Mentor: |
Swadeshmukul Santra, PhD
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Team Size:
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3 |
| Open Spots: | 0 |
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Team Member Qualifications:
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Description:
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Florida orchards have been suffering since 2005 from a disease known as huanglongbing (HLB, also called citrus greening), which is caused by the phloem-limited bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and spread by the Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri). The main objective of our project is to investigate the efficacy of a new eutectic solvent–based adjuvant, designed in different prototype formulations, to improve the systemic delivery of antibiotics such as Oxytetracycline at neutral pH, while enhancing their stability and antibacterial activity against the pathogen. Ultimately, this approach aims to improve citrus tree health and productivity. This project also seeks to evaluate the compatibility of the different prototypes with other agrochemicals, including Fertizinc, essential oils, and endophytes, in support of sustainable agriculture. Overall, our project aims to advance the readiness of this innovative adjuvant technology toward large-scale production. |