CRISPR-Combo edits and regulates genes at the same time

University of Maryland scientists have developed CRISPR-Combo, a new tool for editing several genes in plants while simultaneously modifying the expression of other genes. This breakthrough, published in Nature Plants, allows genetic engineering combinations that work together to enhance the functionality and breeding of new crops. “As a proof of …

Researchers reveal genetic basis of watermelon seed size

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences have revealed the genetic variation that determines the watermelon seed size based on a systematic study that explored the molecular basis of natural variation. The results are published in Horticulture Research. Seed size is one of the vital agronomic traits of watermelon …

Health Canada approves COVIFENZ®, Medicago’s plant-based COVID-19 vaccine

Quebec City-based biopharmaceutical company Medicago and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) have announced that Health Canada has granted approval for the plant-based virus-like particles (VLP), recombinant, adjuvanted COVIFENZ® COVID-19 vaccine. Health Canada based its decision on scientific data shared by Medicago. COVIFENZ® COVID-19 vaccine uses coronavirus-like particle (CoVLP) technology. VLPs are molecules that …

Potato genome decoded by German research team

For the first time, researchers from the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich and the Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research in Cologne have completely decoded the highly complex genome of the potato. The researchers have now succeeded in assembling the first complete genome of the potato, a breakthrough that …