Researchers at the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague have successfully developed a method to chemically synthesize callunene, a natural compound that protects bumblebees from a deadly gut parasite. In a recent discovery, the team also determined that the naturally occurring compound is a 50/50 mixture of its mirror-image forms, meaning the synthetic version can be used directly to safeguard vital pollinator colonies.



Summary

Scientists in Prague have achieved the first chemical synthesis of callunene, a natural substance that defends bumblebees against a harmful gut parasite. Crucially, they found naturally produced callunene is a balanced mix of two mirror-image forms. This discovery is significant because the synthetic callunene, unlike synthesizing other compounds, doesn’t require further separation of these forms, making it readily available. This breakthrough paves the way for using synthetic callunene to protect vulnerable bumblebee populations and preserve their vital role in pollination.

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