Synthesis and screening of kojic acid derivatives for their bio-efficacy against diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella L.)

Abstract Kojic acid derivatives containing urea and thiourea linkage has been synthesized and tested against second instar larvae of diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) under laboratory conditions. Most of the compounds showed ≥ 50% mortality against second instar larvae of P. xylostella. Compound 3b was found more effective against P. xylostella (83.3% mortality at 10,000 ppm) after 96 h of treatment. Other compounds with significant mortality were 4h, 4j (80% mortality at 10,000 ppm), and 3c, 4c, 4m (76.6% mortality at 10,000 ppm). The most promising compounds among the synthesized library could be candidates for further development to obtain lead molecules.