Cas12a-guided large-cargo DNA cassette integration in oilseed crops using a synchronized locusgate platform
A TRL-3 platform using Cas12a to enable precise insertion of large DNA cassettes in soybeans and oilseed rape. The approach synchronizes donor availability with a transient repair window and uses dual-junction-dependent selection to recover cells forming both intended genomic junctions. Proposed enhancements include donor optimization for large payloads, transient repair-pathway modulation, and optional split-donor reconstitution for larger inserts, targeting higher usable plant proportions and fewer multicopy, backbone-positive, and ectopic events.
Overview
A genetic engineering platform for oilseed crops, focused on soybeans and oilseed rape. The system uses the Cas12a nuclease to enable precise insertion of large DNA cassettes, reported in the 7–10 kb range, with future capability extending to 15–25 kb. Rather than treating donor delivery, nuclease timing, and repair as separate steps, the platform synchronizes these processes to improve the efficiency and accuracy of genetic modifications. It is designed to recover cells that form both intended genomic junctions, reducing incomplete or undesirable integration events.
Technical specifications
- Core components:
- Cas12a nuclease for targeted DNA cleavage
- Agrobacterium-compatible platform for delivery
- Synchronized donor availability and transient repair window
- Dual-junction-dependent selection for event recovery
- Proposed enhancements:
- Donor optimization for large payloads
- Transient repair-pathway modulation
- Optional split-donor reconstitution for 15–25 kb insertions
- Performance targets:
- Increased proportion of usable plants
- Reduced multicopy, backbone-positive, and ectopic events
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL-3, the platform is in the experimental phase and undergoing validation. Development is organized into multiple phases, including proof-of-concept studies, regeneration, inheritance testing, and payload scaling.
About Valor Infrastructure Holdings, LLC
Valor Infrastructure Holdings, LLC is a patent licensing firm that focuses on developing and licensing intellectual property for critical infrastructure. The company specializes in four core architectural clusters: AI data center thermal infrastructure, acoustic medical platform technology, atmospheric filtration, and infrastructure safety systems. Operating under a pure-licensing model, Valor designs and files foundational US patents, allowing industrial partners to manage the manufacturing, distribution, and deployment of the resulting technologies. Their approach centers on the creation of robust patent architectures that address technical challenges in efficiency, safety, and environmental control.
By licensing these architectures, Valor enables industry leaders to implement advanced systems such as phononic-crystal atmospheric filtration for hospitals, self-stabilizing infrastructure control surfaces, and acoustic-based water purification. These solutions are designed to integrate with modern networks, such as smart-hospital management systems, offering alternatives to traditional filter media or chemical-heavy processes. The company emphasizes a commitment to long-term intellectual property foundations as a means to foster innovation in complex infrastructure environments.
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