Syngenta Biotechnology, Inc. (SBI) Licenses Chromatin Gene Stacking Technology
RALEIGH, N.C., Oct. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Syngenta Biotechnology Inc. announced today that it has entered into a research and commercial license agreement for Chromatin's proprietary gene stacking technology.
Chromatin has developed a novel approach to gene stacking, using the plant's own DNA to deliver several genes on a mini-chromosome. Under the agreement, Syngenta has obtained non-exclusive rights to use Chromatin's gene stacking technology for trait genes in corn and soybeans
"Growers need increasingly more sophisticated tools to meet the demands on the agriculture market, and stacked traits along with improved seed germplasm will be instrumental," said Roger Kemble, Head of Syngenta Crop Genetics Research. "We will evaluate this technology in combination with our own innovative research programs and strong pipeline as part of our intense commitment to speed delivery of products to market."
"Syngenta is a leading agribusiness company committed to developing crops that meet multiple needs. Chromatin is pleased to partner with Syngenta, whose trait gene inventory and crop production programs make them an ideal partner for us," said Daphne Preuss, Chromatin's Chief Scientific Officer and President.
Further terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Syngenta is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2006 were approximately $8.1 billion. Syngenta employs around 21,000 people in over 90 countries. Syngenta is listed on the Swiss stock exchange (SYNN) and in New York . Further information is available at http://www.syngenta.com .
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This document contains forward-looking statements, which can be identified by terminology such as 'expect', 'would', 'will', 'potential', 'plans', 'prospects', 'estimated', 'aiming', 'on track' and similar expressions. Such statements may be subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from these statements. We refer you to Syngenta's publicly available filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for information about these and other risks and uncertainties. Syngenta assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, changed assumptions or other factors. This document does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer, to purchase or subscribe for any ordinary shares in Syngenta AG, or Syngenta ADSs, nor shall it form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract therefore.
CONTACT: Media: Medard Schoenmaeckers (Switzerland), +41-61-323-2323,
Sarah Hull (US), +1-202-628-2372, or Analysts-Investors: Jonathan Seabrook,
+41-61-323-7502, +1-202-737-6520, Jennifer Gough, +41-61-323-5059,
+1-202-737-6521, all of Syngenta Biotechnology Inc.
Web site: http://www.syngenta.com/