DuPont and Devgen Extend Research Collaboration on Pest Resistance Solutions
Research focused on multi-billion dollar nematode challenge for crops, including soybeans
DuPont, through its subsidiary Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc., and Devgen announced the extension of a research collaboration to develop superior crop varieties with innate resistance to plant pests, such as plant parasitic nematodes, which are a leading pest impacting soybean yields.
Nematodes are a significant pest in crops like soybeans, which remains as the primary focus of the extended collaboration. The damage caused by these soil borne organisms is estimated to be $80 billion worldwide. Root damage causes poor crop growth, which ultimately reduces crop yields and grain quality.
Pioneer pursues a range of broad-based molecular, genetic and agronomic approaches to develop high-yielding crop varieties with improved resistances to key pests and environmental stresses for growers worldwide.
Through the collaboration, Devgen uses its patented technology to identify and express genes that can be used to control nematode pests in crop plants. Through its research program, Pioneer integrates the traits with its elite germplasm to create nematode resistant crop varieties with increased yield and enhanced value for customers. Under the agreement, Devgen receives research payments and is eligible for milestones and royalties.
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