March 2023 saw a piece of legislation become law that puts the UK biotechnology sector front and centre of the future of agriculture.
The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023 covers precision-bred plants and animals developed through biotechnology such as gene editing, where the genetic changes could have occurred naturally or through traditional breeding methods. Our Founders are proud to have provided input to the development of the Bill and applaud the UK Government for its science-based approach to Regulation of gene-edited products.
Gene editing creates opportunities for the precision breeding of crops to make them resistant to pests and disease, or to be better able to cope with extreme weather events such as drought or flooding. It can also help to develop foods with direct benefits to the public, such as increased nutritional value, maximised flavour and longer shelf life.
Clearly there are benefits to farming and for food production of the Precision Breeding Act, however, it is the recognition of the role that UK biotech plays in the future of climate resilience and food security that will put a smile on the faces of scientists and innovators up and down the country.
The UK has a world-class biotechnology sector that makes it a highly attractive destination for investment. With some of the best universities and research institutions in the world, the UK is well placed to deliver the innovation and cutting-edge science for more productive and sustainable agriculture and food production.
The tool commonly used in gene editing is known as CRISPR/Cas, or, simply “CRISPR”. This is a defence-mechanism that evolved naturally in bacteria which recognises specific sequences of DNA in invading viruses. Biotechnologists use CRISPR and its associated enzymes as molecular scissors to precisely cut or “edit” the genome to deliver the desired characteristics in the plant or animal.
At Flourish Bioscience we use CRISPR differently. Our patented approach is called Guided Biotics®. This game changing technology is unique in the industry because it uses CRISPR to precisely control disease-causing pathogens and regulate microbial metabolism. Applied via foliar or soil application, or via seed treatment it can be used to deliver a broad range of benefits to the crop and its environment. This precise bacterial control enables yield and quality to be protected and increased whilst reducing the need for chemical pesticides and other treatments that can damage the environment.
Flourish’s Guided Biotics® exemplify the innovation and strength of the UK biotechnology sector. With continued investment and support, technologies such as Guided Biotics® have the potential to transform the way that food is produced, supporting the global need for increased productivity which is safe and sustainable. Whilst the Precision Breeding Act has brought well deserved recognition to the importance of the biotechnology sector to long-term food security, the potential for this industry is enormous and the journey has only just begun.
