BEIJING, CHINA — Origin Agritech Ltd. and China Agricultural University have entered into an agreement for the research of molecular design in corn.

One of the key focuses of the collaboration is the use of CRISPR gene editing for creating innovative new corn crops. CRISPR has been called a revolution in plant breeding because it dramatically reduces the time and cost of producing new crops as compared to conventional GMO technologies. China Agricultural University has been working on CRISPR for many years and brings to the collaboration many highly developed skills and innovations.

Origin established its corn CRISPR gene editing technology platform in 2017. Since then, Origin has been actively researching genetic advancements to improve both the yield and nutritional composition of its corn hybrids. It has already had multiple breakthroughs in the discovery of desirable genetics traits, such as traits to improve drought resistance, adjust stalk height, and increase desirable nutritional qualities (Zeaxanthin and Lysine).

“This collaboration with China Agricultural University will enable Origin to accelerate its technological leadership in molecular design of corn and allow us to play a key role in China’s drive to strengthen its agricultural industry through technological advancements,” said Dr. Gengchen Han, chairman and chief executive officer of Origin Agritech.