Des Moines, Iowa
June 26, 2008
DuPont business Pioneer
Hi-Bred today announced that it has identified and
incorporated new proprietary
molecular markers
into its soybean research program. The new markers significantly
enhance the company's ability to bring to market soybeans
resistant to three common destructive soybean pests -- Asian
Soybean Rust, soybean aphids and frogeye leaf spot.
"These molecular markers will help us boost soybean yields by 40
percent within the next 10 years," said William S. Niebur, vice
president, DuPont Crop Genetics Research and Development. "These
markers are part of our industry leading Accelerated Yield
Technology (AYT) that harnesses the power of our germplasm
collection, strong bioassays, computing power and molecular
breeding tools to drive genetic gain at unprecedented rates."
If left untreated, Asian Soybean Rust, soybean aphids and
frogeye leaf spot can cause significant damage and yield loss to
soybeans:
-- Asian Soybean Rust -- Without fungicide applications, Asian
soybean rust has the potential to eliminate soybean yield.
Pioneer plans to commercialize soybean varieties carrying
multiple sources of Asian Soybean Rust resistance by 2012 in
Brazil and by 2013 in the United States. Asian Soybean Rust must
currently be controlled with fungicide; the new Asian Soybean
Rust resistant varieties will add another tool that farmers can
use to combat Asian Soybean Rust. In addition, Pioneer is also
pursuing transgenic modes of resistance.
-- Frogeye Leaf Spot -- If left untreated, frogeye leaf spot can
cause up to a 15 percent yield loss. Pioneer plans to
commercialize soybean varieties with frogeye leaf spot
resistance by 2011 in North America. The new resistant varieties
will be another option in addition to fungicides to combat this
disease.
-- Soybean Aphids -- Soybean aphids can cause up to 100 percent
soybean yield loss if left untreated. Pioneer plans to
commercialize soybean varieties with soybean aphid resistance by
2011. The new resistant varieties will reduce or eliminate the
need for soybean aphid insecticide application.
"The addition of these novel markers to our soybean product
development approach will build and extend our number one brand
position in soybeans," Niebur said.
Pioneer soybean breeders are using these new technologies to
bring better products to its customers as quickly as possible.
The markers are non-transgenic and are not subject to additional
regulatory approvals. Pioneer is seeking patent protection on
resulting improved soybean varieties, as well as the tools and
techniques used to develop them.
Molecular markers act as genetic road signs, indicating where
scientists should look on a segment of DNA for genes related to
a specific trait. Once molecular markers are identified,
researchers can use DNA analysis early in product development to
screen for the presence of these specific traits. This ability
to screen complements extensive trait-specific field testing,
for complex traits, driving greater success in research
programs.
Pioneer has led the way in developing proprietary
marker-assisted selection processes, most notably to introduce
key defensive traits to protect soybean yield from harmful pests
such as soybean cyst nematode, Phytophthora root rot, and brown
stem rot.
Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is the world's leading
source of customized solutions for farmers, livestock producers
and grain and oilseed processors. With headquarters in Des
Moines, Iowa, Pioneer provides access to advanced plant genetics
in nearly 70 countries.
DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a science-based products and services
company. Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by
creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer,
healthier life for people everywhere. Operating in more than 70
countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and
services for markets including agriculture and food; building
and construction; communications; and transportation. |
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