10132437Improvements of a Crop Derived Novel Bioactive Antiviral for use in the Agri-livestock Sector.ClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UK**_Aceae Nutra have developed a tomato that can be added to livestock animal feed to reduce the impact of viruses. Viruses that have a significant negative impact on U.K and worldwide agriculture._** Tomatoes are a rich source of dietary health promoting molecules that can support the immune system in combating disease. A diet containing tomatoes can therefore be beneficial for animal health. Tomato fruits produce many well-studied compounds such as polyphenols and carotenoids. However, they also contain other molecules such as lipids, which also have positive health benefits. Many of these compounds have been overlooked in conventional breeding studies. Aceae Nutra are developing conventionally bred novel non-GM cultivars enriched with a patented antiviral lipid molecule e.g. compound with antiviral properties demonstrated in lab testing at the University of Nottingham and the UK Health Security Agency. Fruits containing our patented compound have potential for use as a feed additive to improve livestock health, animals blighted by infection. Our approach adds cash value to the crop for the grower and reduces costs to the livestock farmer occurred through animal loss and disease. Collectively this project contributes to improving the viability of regional and national growers; currently experiencing reduced harvest profit margins due to high energy prices, while also improving profitability, reduced wastage and food security for the livestock farmer. This project exploits the tomato cultivar germplasm collection established by Aceae at the National Institute of Botany (Cambridge, UK), Using analytical chemistry, we will screen our novel proprietary varieties for Aceae patented lipids and select lines with improved commercial traits for intergenerational stability testing, allowing capture of plant breeder's rights and securing additional valuable IP. We have potential to exploit these new cultivars through partnerships with animal feeds manufacturers e.g. AB Agri, part of the ABF group and by developing new relationships with corporate clients.