Automated protein evolution platform for crop protection

Overview

Innatrix has developed a proprietary, automated protein evolution platform designed to accelerate the discovery and optimization of protein ligands that can serve as novel biocontrol agents against plant pathogens. The system enables many generations of mutagenesis and binding selection per day in autonomous mode, running continuously for weeks. This dramatically shortens the timeline for developing targeted crop protection proteins compared to traditional methods. The platform is being validated using the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) virulence effector protein as a proof-of-concept target, with the goal of demonstrating that the system can produce optimized protein ligands capable of neutralizing this major agricultural pest.

Technical specifications

Core capabilities:

• Continuous lab evolution system that performs multiple rounds of mutagenesis and selection for binding affinity per day
• Automated hardware and software platform operating in autonomous mode for extended periods (weeks)
• Protein ligand optimization workflow, previously validated for T7 RNA polymerase ligand improvement
• Ability to evolve protein ligands against specific pathogen targets, including nematode virulence effectors
• Inexpensive and easy-to-use design intended to lower barriers to adoption

Validation approach:

• Expression of target pathogen proteins in functional form in vitro
• Identification of initial protein ligand candidates
• Iterative optimization of ligands through the evolution platform
• Confirmation of efficacy through both in vitro and in planta assays

Technology readiness level

The protein evolution selection system has been confirmed working through multiple experiments, and the underlying intellectual property is close to patent award. Ligand optimization has already been demonstrated for T7 RNA polymerase as a model target. The current stage involves validating the full workflow against the soybean cyst nematode target, including target expression, ligand identification, optimization, and efficacy confirmation. The platform is positioned for collaborative validation with partners experienced in plant pathology and in planta assay development.