During the last seven years, the biotechnology group has been engaged in the search for clean alternatives to the use of pesticides and biocides. A suitable biochemistry laboratory and plant tissue cultures is at the group disposal to carry on research work.

So far, the most outstanding achievement of this group has been the establishment of a link between laboratory and field biological research. Knowledge gained on the biochemistry of plant resistance and susceptibility to diseases caused by fungi and attack mechanisms used by the latter, has led to the production of biologically-originated "physiological immunity" inducer substances (elicitors), or systemic resistance in plants against diseases. The efficacy of this pathogenic control system has been tested in the field in potato crops during three successive years with highly rewarding results. This achievement has resulted in the submission of a national patent for international registration in the near future. Similar techniques are being applied in flowers and other products with encouraging results.