Messenger® : An environmentally sound solution for crop production and protection

Messenger® is a novel product that enhances yield, quality, and disease and pest resistance in treated plants. These enhancements are based on the activity of a new class of nontoxic, naturally occurring proteins called harpins that are the active ingredients in Messenger. Harpin proteins activate certain plant growth and reproductive systems and trigger natural defense systems in plants that protect nonspecifically against many diseases and pests. When applied to crops, harpin increases plant biomass, photosynthesis, nutrient uptake and root development that ultimately leads to better crop quality and yield increases of 10 to 20%. After application, harpin-induced activity initially results in increased ion exchange through cell membranes that is followed by substantial changes in the level of gene expression. Up or down-regulated genes are generally associated with signal transduction pathways related to specific functions including protein and sugar transport, cell growth, plant development, flower induction, fruit set, and disease, pest, and stress resistance. These harpin-induced responses are initiated through a binding process between harpin and HrBP1, a putative harpin receptor protein that exists in all crops tested thus far. Using environmentally friendly fermentation and formulation processes, Eden Bioscience has advanced harpin technology to the marketplace in the form of Messenger, the first commercial product of this new crop management technology. EPA approved Messenger in April 2000 as a biochemical pesticide for yield enhancement and disease management in more than 40 crops. Messenger is virtually non-toxic, does not leach, bioacccumulate, or persist in the environment, and leaves no detectable residues on treated crops. EPA officially recognized the potential benefits of Messenger with its Presidential Green Chemistry Award in 2001: "Messenger: A Green Chemistry Revolution in Plant Production and Food Safety."