Pasteuria Bioscience

Pasteuria Bioscience, Inc. operated as a biotechnology firm focused on developing and commercializing biological solutions for nematode control, identified as a significant unmet need in the agricultural sector. Founded in 2003 by David Duncan, the company originated within the University of Florida's Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator. Its core business centered on the *Pasteuria spp.*, a naturally occurring soil bacteria recognized for its parasitic effect on plant-parasitic nematodes. The company's primary achievement was the development of a proprietary in-vitro fermentation process, a breakthrough that enabled the cost-effective, commercial-scale manufacturing of *Pasteuria* spores, which were previously difficult to produce.

The business model involved creating nematicide products for a range of clients, from agriculture to turf management. The first product, Econem®, was launched in 2010 to control sting nematodes in the golf and sports turf markets. The company's product pipeline targeted major nematode pests affecting high-value crops like soybeans, corn, cotton, sugar beets, fruits, and vegetables. These products function as biological control agents; the bacterial spores attach to and infect nematodes, preventing their reproduction and controlling pest populations without the use of traditional chemical nematicides. Revenue was generated through the sale of these biocontrol products and through strategic partnerships.

A significant milestone was a global exclusive technology partnership with Syngenta in 2011 to develop and commercialize *Pasteuria*-based products. This collaboration culminated in the acquisition of Pasteuria Bioscience by Syngenta in the fourth quarter of 2012. The deal was valued at an aggregate of $86 million, with potential for up to $27 million in additional deferred payments. Following the acquisition, Syngenta continued to build on the platform, launching CLARIVA™, a seed treatment for soybean cyst nematode, in 2014 based on the acquired technology.

Keywords: biological nematicides, nematode control, Pasteuria spp., biocontrol agents, agricultural biotechnology, seed treatment, crop protection, soil bacteria, integrated pest management, Syngenta acquisition, sustainable agriculture, microbial pesticides, plant-parasitic nematodes, soybean cyst nematode, in-vitro fermentation, turf management, agricultural chemicals, root-knot nematode