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Researchers at the School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi have developed an Artificial Intelligence-based tool to predict the level of metabolite content in neem fruits as either low or high based on images of neem leaves and fruits.
The AI-based approach makes the use of expensive and cumbersome analytical equipment like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) redundant.
The classification of fruits can be carried out in the field even by untrained people.
The results have been posted on a preprint server; preprints are not peer-reviewed.
What is azadirachtin?
Azadirachtin is a naturally occurring compound found in the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica).
It's the key ingredient behind neem oil's insecticidal properties.
Origin: Extracted from neem seeds
Function: Acts as a broad-spectrum insecticide
Mode of action: Disrupts insects' growth, feeding, and reproduction in various ways:
Anti-feedant: Discourages insects from eating the plant
Molting disruptor: Interferes with the insect's molting process, leading to death or deformity
Repellent: Drives away adult insects and larvae
Sterilization: Reduces the insect's ability to reproduce
Egg-laying deterrence: Discourages egg-laying on treated plants.
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