Engineering reversible male sterility - improved methods for hybrid seed production
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Leicester
Department Name: Biology
Abstract
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Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| David Twell (Principal Investigator) |
| Description | The primary and secondary research summarised in this report identifies two potential commercial applications for the University's germline control technology: 1. Use of the technology to deliver reversible male sterility systems for use in hybrid breeding of GM crops 2. Use of technology to control viable pollen flow from GM grasses or trees. The primary driver for improved male sterility systems has been from companies breeding global crops where the production of hybrids has been difficult and/or expensive and as a result the value of the commercial seed sector for these crops does not reflect the overall value of the crop from a production perspective. The primary target for these improved systems has been wheat. |
| Exploitation Route | In order to interest an agbiotechnology or seed breeding partner to work with the University to take the technology forward in arable crops (e.g. wheat) would first require the University to achieve two initial milestones: 1. Proof of concept in a representative crop plant focussing on the desired trait outcome of reversible male sterility; and 2. Strengthening its intellectual property to file and substantiate patent claims relating to the system and its components. |
| Sectors | Agriculture, Food and Drink,Environment |
| Description | The primary and secondary research involving extensive discussion with potential commercial partners is summarised in the report arising from the pathfinder application. This identifies two potential commercial applications for the University's germline control technology: 1. Use of the technology to deliver reversible male sterility systems for use in hybrid breeding of GM crops 2. Use of technology to control viable pollen flow from GM grasses or trees. The main impacts arising from the grant at this stage have been improvement in knowledge exchange with industry including new contacts and an understanding of the potential market for technology. Similarly, we have provided industrial partners with access to novel research tools and information arising from BBSRC-funded research. A research development strategy including University, institutional and commercial partners are being explored. |
| First Year Of Impact | 2014 |
| Sector | Agriculture, Food and Drink |
| Impact Types | Economic |