# Structural substitutions on the methoxybenzene ring retain the biological activity of the zaxinone mimics MiZax3

## TL;DR

Researchers modified a plant growth compound to maintain its effectiveness while reducing harmful effects on crops.

## Contribution

New MiZax compounds were developed with structural changes that preserve bioactivity and reduce strigolactone exudation.

## Key findings

- Modified MiZax compounds enhance rice growth and reduce Striga infestation.
- Structural changes on the methoxybenzene ring retain the bioactivity of MiZax3.
- New mimics suppress strigolactone production without losing effectiveness.

## Abstract

The plant growth regulator zaxinone is essential for proper rice growth and development. Additionally, zaxinone and its two synthetic mimics, MiZax3 and MiZax5, have been shown to significantly promote crop growth and reduce infestation by the root parasitic plant Striga by suppressing strigolactone (SL) production, highlighting their potential for field application. Here, we developed 4 new MiZax through structural modifications of the methoxybenzene ring in MiZax3 and evaluated their effects on plant growth and SL exudation. These newly developed mimics enhanced rice growth and reduced SL release without compromising the bioactivity of the lead compound MiZax3. Our findings underscore their potential to guide future chemical design efforts aimed at exploring zaxinone biology.