Spray-on gene silencing to overcome herbicide resistance in weeds
Cleanfield Technologies presents a novel spray-on gene silencing solution to combat Group 27 herbicide resistance in weeds by targeting P450 reductase genes, potentially restoring herbicide sensitivity.
Overview
Cleanfield Technologies introduces an innovative approach to tackling resistance to Group 27 herbicides in weeds like Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. By utilizing spray-on gene silencing, this solution targets and suppresses the expression of P450 reductase genes, thereby reducing the metabolic capacity of these weeds to detoxify herbicides such as mesotrione. This method holds promise for enhancing the efficacy of existing herbicide treatments and managing resistant weed populations more effectively.
Technical specifications
- Technology: Spray-on gene silencing using anti-sense oligonucleotides (ASO)
- Target Genes: Three P450 reductase genes identified in both waterhemp and Palmer amaranth
- Mechanism: ASOs are designed to bind with plant mRNA, resulting in the knockdown of P450 reductase gene expression, which is essential for metabolizing Group 27 herbicides
- Application: After identifying optimal ASO sequences through in-vitro binding studies, formulations are applied to plants to measure mRNA knockdown, followed by herbicide application to assess restored sensitivity
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Future validation steps involve in-vivo testing on plants to measure effectiveness in reducing herbicide resistance in real-world conditions.
About Cleanfield Technologies Inc
Cleanfield Technologies Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing sustainable, RNA-based solutions for weed and pest management in agriculture. The company utilizes proprietary, patented antisense oligonucleotide technology to target and knock down specific gene expression in pests and weeds based on their genomic profiles. By designing customized oligos, the company aims to address complex agricultural challenges, such as herbicide resistance, while providing a precise and safe alternative that does not alter the DNA of the crops themselves. The technology is intended to be adaptable for a wide range of agricultural threats, offering a targeted approach to crop protection.
Founded by Todd Gaines and Anna Silverman, Cleanfield Technologies partners with organizations like AUM Lifetech and research institutions such as Colorado State University to advance its research and development. The company seeks to increase agricultural efficiency and food production sustainability by reducing the need for traditional land and water resources. Currently in the research and development phase, Cleanfield Technologies is working toward regulatory testing and commercial availability, aiming to bring its innovative pest management solutions to the agricultural market within the coming decade.
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