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Epigenetic modification enables the regulation of plant traits by altering gene expression without changing the underlying DNA sequence. Mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling influence whether genes are active or silenced, leading to observable phenotypic changes. These processes can occur naturally in response to environmental stimuli and may result in effects that are transient or, in some cases, heritable across generations. Depending on the mechanism and target, outcomes can range from subtle quantitative shifts in expression to more defined qualitative trait changes.
Despite its potential, the application of epigenetic engineering in plants remains limited by challenges in precision, stability, and delivery. Many epigenetic changes are reversible or reset during reproduction, and efficient delivery of epigenetic editing systems remains species- and tissue-dependent. Additionally, achieving predictable, reproducible modulation of gene expression across different targets is still an area of active development.
Advances in programmable platforms, particularly CRISPR-based epigenome editing systems, are enabling more precise and tunable control of gene expression across diverse targets. Such tools could unlock new strategies for improving crop resilience, yield, and stress tolerance without altering genomic sequences, potentially offering more flexible regulatory pathways compared to traditional genetic modification.
We are looking for platforms capable of modulating plant traits through targeted epigenetic modifications, without altering the underlying DNA sequence. We are open to approaches that may be temporal or heritable, qualitative or quantitative, and that can be applied across various genes associated with different traits where underlying genetic factors and targets are already known. We welcome integrated platforms that combine targeted epigenetic modulation with delivery, as well as individual components (e.g., delivery systems or epigenetic editing tools) that could be combined into a field-applicable solution.
- Platforms for targeted installation, removal, or remodeling of epigenetic marks in plants, such as DNA methylation writers, erasers, or readers (e.g., targeted recruitment of methyltransferases or demethylases), histone-modifying systems (e.g., targeted acetylation, deacetylation, methylation), and chromatin remodeling tools that alter accessibility without changing DNA sequence
- Programmable epigenetic editing systems that can be directed to specific loci associated with agronomic traits, including CRISPR/dCas-based epigenome editors (e.g., dCas fusions to epigenetic effector domains) and RNA-guided or protein-based platforms that modulate chromatin state or transcription without inducing double-strand breaks
- Delivery technologies compatible with field or greenhouse deployment, including sprayable or foliar-applied systems enabling uptake of nucleic acids, RNPs, or protein complexes into relevant plant tissues (e.g., nanoparticle- or peptide-based carriers), and local or systemic delivery approaches that can reach meristems, reproductive tissues, or other target cell types to achieve temporal or heritable epigenetic changes
- Systems enabling tunable, reversible, or staged epigenetic modulation, such as inducible or environmentally responsive epigenetic switches and dose- or duration-dependent platforms that allow graded control of gene expression
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Demonstrated proof of concept in model plant species, with a clear rationale or pathway for translation into crop plants
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For epigenetic editing or modulation tools: molecular evidence of epigenetic modification without alteration of the underlying DNA sequence, either temporal or heritable, with or without evidence of downstream impacts on gene expression or trait modification
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For delivery technologies: evidence or strong rationale that the system can deliver relevant biomolecules, such as nucleic acids, RNPs, proteins, or epigenetic editing components, into plant tissues or cells
- Ability to support multiple classes of epigenetic modifications, from DNA methylation to histone modification
- Solutions that rely on stable genome integration, transgenic modification, or DNA sequence editing (e.g., CRISPR-based gene knockouts or insertions)
- Technologies developed in non-plant systems (e.g., mammalian epigenetic platforms) without evidence of feasibility or translation to plant systems
Bayer’s vision of #HealthForAll, #HungerForNone drives our need to strengthen innovation capabilities in all areas of agriculture. We know we can’t accomplish this alone, so we're always interested to hear about novel, early-stage scientific innovations that can contribute to feeding the world without starving the planet. You have our commitment to take a look, match with our R&D priorities and provide you timely feedback.
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