Biological Modification

Genomes contain gene sequences - the encodings of proteins - and a much larger number of non-encoding sequences that control the expression of these genes.  Specific sequences known to produce desired properties can be introduced into a crop through the genetic insertion of a specific sequence into the crop genome through a technique known as transformation.  The new gene includes both the DNA that encodes the operative protein as well as a biological switch called a promoter which targets the new gene's activity.

Improved Products

TGI believes biological modification can improve product functionality in very specific ways and has demonstrated results in large-scale field trials.  TGI is using its biological modification program in an effort to create:

• increased seed yield in corn, soybeans, canola and rice;
• increased fermentable sugar levels in corn; and
• increased yield of seed oil and improved seed oil characteristics for biodiesel applications in camelina.