Optimization of hydrolysis conditions for release of biopesticides from glucosinolates in Brassica juncea and Sinapis alba seed meal extracts

Development of alternative, economically sound methods of pest control is a priority in modern agriculture due to the rise in pest resistance and increased demand for organic crops. Although Brassicaceae seed meals have demonstrated promise as natural pesticides, use is limited by the bulky nature of the material and inconsistent efficacy. Here is presented an optimization of hydrolysis conditions for production of pesticidal compounds from extracts of yellow (Sinapis alba L.) and Oriental (Brassica juncea L.) mustards. Upon hydrolysis by the endogenous enzyme myrosinase, glucosinolates sinigrin and sinalbin naturally present in mustard produce biologically active 2-propenyl isothiocyanate and SCN−, respectively. Hydrolysis solution composition, time, and amount of mustard seed meal as a source of myrosinase were optimized to result in maximum production of 2-propenyl isothiocyanate from B. juncea and SCN− from S. alba extracts. Using optimized conditions, the release of active pesticidal compounds from the extract can be achieved within 48 h. Formulated extracts can be prepared in such a manner that they will be potentially suitable for organic certification.