Genome editing platform for evaluating plant promoter variants
Innovative genome editing platform utilizing GFP fluorescence for precise evaluation of promoter variants in plants. The system leverages a self-replicating element activated by Cas9, enabling sensitive detection and quantification of gene expression at the single-cell level.
Overview
This innovative genome editing platform enables precise evaluation of promoter variants in plants by using a GFP fluorescence reporter system. The core of the technology is a self-replicating element (SRE) that remains inactive until activated by Cas9-mediated editing. This activation results in a gain-of-function scenario with a strong, consistent GFP output, allowing for flexible and high-resolution screening of promoter strengths across various systems.
Technical specifications
- Self-Replicating Element (SRE): Remains inactive until Cas9 editing occurs, ensuring high GFP output upon activation.
- Single-Cell Resolution: Enables visualization of promoter activity at the single-cell level, providing a binary readout of expression.
- Quantitative Assessments: Conducted by counting GFP-positive cells to evaluate promoter variant strength.
- Dynamic Range: Maintains broad and stable dynamic range, avoiding saturation and allowing accurate comparisons.
- Validation Controls: Utilizes known promoters like 35S CaMV and NOS for benchmarking.
Technology readiness level
Current development is at TRL 4, with laboratory validation ongoing. Future validation will involve testing promoter variant libraries from various sources and confirming findings through qPCR to ensure reliability in gene expression assessments.
About BetterSeeds
BetterSeeds is an agricultural biotechnology company that provides a comprehensive gene-editing platform designed to democratize access to advanced plant breeding technologies. The company’s integrated framework combines gene-editing tools, specialized delivery systems, and non-transgenic trait modules. By utilizing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, BetterSeeds enables seed companies that lack the infrastructure to build in-house gene-editing stacks to develop new crop varieties with enhanced properties, including resistance to climate stressors and adaptability to mechanized harvesting.
The company serves the broader seed industry by offering a scalable, affordable alternative to traditional, high-cost R&D models historically dominated by a few major players. By facilitating the development of elite traits without the introduction of foreign genes, BetterSeeds helps its partners accelerate breeding programs and transition from initial pilots to repeatable, commercial deployments. The company’s approach is supported by a portfolio of subsidiaries that demonstrate the versatility of its platform across various high-value specialty crops.
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