May 10, 2011
NeoVentures Biotechnology Inc. announces the formation of a subsidary group, Cropomics Inc. NeoVentures has granted exclusive license rights to technology regarding the application of polyamides to crop improvement to Cropomics Inc. Cropomics Inc. will be initially focused on the further development of these technologies and subsequently act as the operating entity for the commercialization of applications derived from their use. The creation of Cropomics is based on a need to maintain clear focus within business and research teams as NeoVentures moves ahead with commercial applications of their Dubbles, DNA ligand platform technology.
Vision
Cropomics is dedicated to the application of minor groove binding (MGB) molecules to crop improvement. This technology can be used to create heritable crop improvements such as increased yield, drought resistance, disease resistance, and value-added performance through a non-transgenic format. Heritable improvements can be created through any one of the following possible applications;
- Stimulation of enhanced site specific recombination events
- Stimulation of unequal recombination events leading to the deletion or multiplication of endogenous genes
- Stimulation of site specific mutation events
It is our intention to use this technology for the modulation of gene expression networks in crops. Our first targeted project is the use of an MGB to exogenously induce male sterility for hybrid seed production. The modulation of expression of traits such as drought resistance "on-demand" in field applications will follow.
Our business strategy is to enter into technology application agreements with end users on a field limited basis.