Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina
June 26, 2009
Syngenta Biotechnology,
Inc. announced today that it has entered into an exclusive
worldwide research and commercial license agreement for
Chromatin's
proprietary gene stacking technology in sugar cane.
Chromatin has developed a novel approach to gene stacking, using
the plant's own DNA to deliver several genes. Under this
agreement, Syngenta has obtained exclusive rights to use
Chromatin's stacking technology for trait genes in all members
of the genus Saccharum which includes commercial sugar cane
varieties as well as energy cane, and crosses between Saccharum
and other plant species. Syngenta obtained non-exclusive rights
for use of this stacking technology in corn and soybean in 2007.
Sugar cane is among the top crops grown today for use in sugar
production and biofuels. Syngenta offers a broad range of crop
protection products for sugar cane growers and is developing a
novel planting technology planned for launch in 2010 under the
brand name Plene™ that will help reduce production costs. New
trait combinations in sugar cane could offer growers additional
improvements in production efficiency and yield increases.
"Sugar cane growers and processors will benefit economically and
environmentally from access to a combination of advanced traits
that this technology could make," said Ian Jepson, Global R&D
sugar cane crop lead. "This new stacking technology, combined
with the advanced plant varieties, crop protection choices, and
our revolutionary new Plene technology will ensure our customers
will have the best solutions in sugar cane and will give us a
leading position especially in the large Brazilian market."
"Chromatin is pleased to continue our work with Syngenta," said
Daphne Preuss, Chromatin's chief executive officer and
president. "The broad Syngenta pipeline and crop production
programs make them an ideal partner for us in applying
Chromatin's gene stacking technology in sugar cane worldwide."
Further terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more
than 24,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our
purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class
science, global reach and commitment to our customers we help to
increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve
health and quality of life. For more information about us please
go to www.syngenta.com.
Plene™ is a trademark of a Syngenta Group Company.
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