Traits Development Accelerated with MGI, Monsanto Partnership

Monsanto will be able to accelerate its ability to identify and develop new traits for platforms like agronomic traits, enhanced nutritional content and improved yield properties with a new collaborative relationship made with Modular Genetics Inc. (MGI).

MGI has developed and patented breakthrough protein optimization platforms, which are used for the screening, identification and assembly of proteins for research. As part of the three-year collaboration, Monsanto will gain an exclusive license to use MGI's platform for use in agricultural applications.

Robert T. Fraley, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Monsanto, says, "Access to MGI's high-capacity protein optimization platform will help us advance projects more quickly and efficiently through our discovery pipeline, ultimately leading to the ability to offer more products to more farmers."

Kevin A. Jarrell, co-founder, president and chief scientific officer of MGI, says the company has worked hard to develop technology that it believes takes a new approach to protein optimization. "We're excited to have the opportunity to build on the work we've done in the pharmaceutical sector and apply our technology in the agricultural arena."

The collaboration includes the establishment of a research facility in Cambridge, Mass., where a team of Monsanto researchers will coordinate Monsanto's protein optimization program. Additionally, MGI will relocate its business and research headquarters to the new Cambridge facility.