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Note from the Editor: Agtech Seedlings is a weekly summary of the latest advancements in agricultural technology, focusing on venture capital investments, product launches, and significant innovations. If you have news to contribute, reach out to us here.
Pairwise Unveils Groundbreaking Seedless Blackberry
Agtech innovator Pairwise has announced the creation of the first seedless blackberry, utilizing advanced gene-editing techniques.
The team employed a variety of CRISPR tools to eliminate hard pits found in traditional berries, resulting in small, soft seeds resembling those of seedless grapes and watermelons.
Ryan Bartlett, Chief Technology Officer of Pairwise, shared, “This trait is expected to revolutionize the blackberry industry and set a precedent for seed and pit removal in other fruits, such as cherries.”
Furthermore, Pairwise has made strides in modifying caneberry plants like blackberries and raspberries to remove thorns and produce a more compact growth habit, allowing for higher plant density in fields.
“We’re thrilled to advance these varieties to the next stage of development, including outdoor trials, working towards availability for consumers within a few years,” said Haven Baker, Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer of Pairwise.
Syngenta Partners with Researchers to Foster Innovation
In a strategic alliance to enhance sustainability and innovation in agriculture, Syngenta is sharing patent rights for specific genome editing technologies with academic institutions.
The shared rights pertain to advanced breeding methodologies and the CRISPR-Cas12a tool, which has gained traction for enabling trait enhancements without foreign DNA introduction. Syngenta emphasized that this method enhances breeding efficiency.
This initiative is part of the global innovation platform, Shoots, launched by Syngenta in 2023, aiming to unite company experts with academics and research bodies to devise solutions for climate change adaptation, biodiversity enhancement, and improved farming efficiency.
Gusui Wu, Syngenta’s head of global seeds research, commented, “The proliferation of CRISPR in agriculture can redefine plant breeding, accelerating the innovation process and providing farmers with more productive and robust crops. We welcome universities worldwide to join us in driving agricultural sustainability.”
New Healthy Potato Chip on the Horizon
A new potato variety, developed by a scientist at Michigan State University, has received crucial federal approval, bringing it one step closer to market.
The Kal91.3 potato has been engineered to be stored at lower temperatures while producing reduced levels of fructose and glucose. Its modifications have led to an exemption from biotech regulations, as determined by the Agriculture Department’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
This potato variety is anticipated to facilitate the production of crunchier and healthier potato chips, according to Kelly Turner, Executive Director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission.
“The Kal91.3 not only boasts high nutrient levels but is also potentially cultivable with fewer fertilizers and pesticides, ultimately minimizing environmental risks associated with potato farming,” Turner added.
Bezos Earth Fund Establishes Research Hub for Sustainable Proteins
The philanthropic organization founded by Amazon’s Jeff Bezos has granted North Carolina State University $30 million over five years to develop a center focused on biotechnology related to plant-based and alternative meat products.
Named the Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein, this facility aims to commercialize novel technologies and assess consumer preferences in this market segment. The funding is part of a broader $100 million commitment by the Bezos Earth Fund to establish a network of research centers dedicated to advancing sustainable meat alternatives.
“Sustainable proteins hold great promise, but further research is crucial to lowering costs and enhancing flavor and texture to ensure the availability of nutritious and affordable alternatives,” stated Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the Earth Fund.
SOURCE
Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
