Pairwise CEO Discusses CRISPR’s Impact on Agriculture

Key Takeaways

CRISPR-Cas9 technology enables precise and speedy gene editing in plants, offering advantages over traditional breeding methods.
Pairwise, led by CEO Tom Adams, is utilizing CRISPR tools to create innovations such as corn with more kernels and seedless blackberries.
Gene editing faces fewer regulatory obstacles compared to GMOs, making it a promising avenue for agricultural advancements.

CRISPR-Cas9, introduced in 2012 and known as “programmable DNA scissors,” has transformed various fields, including cancer research and cultivated meat production. Its application in plant breeding, particularly through the work of companies like Pairwise, signifies a substantial potential in improving crops. Tom Adams, CEO of Pairwise, shared insights at the World Agri-Tech summit in San Francisco on how CRISPR is shaping the future of agriculture.

Precision Over Tradition

Adams explains that gene editing via CRISPR involves making changes to a plant’s native genes rather than introducing foreign DNA, which is the case in transgenic plants classified as GMOs. This distinction generally means that gene-edited plants face fewer regulatory hurdles, making the technology more accessible for use in various agricultural applications. The precision of CRISPR allows for targeted changes, which can be achieved significantly faster than traditional cross-breeding methods.

In cross-breeding, desirable traits may come with unwanted genetic characteristics, requiring extensive sorting through numerous progeny to find the right combination. CRISPR negates this inefficiency by allowing scientists to edit specific genes directly, streamlining the development process dramatically.

Advancements in Gene Editing

Pairwise employs a range of gene editing techniques, including basic “cutting” tools for precise gene deletion or inactivation, as well as advanced “base editing” and “templated editing” methods. These advanced tools enable the replication of natural variations, facilitating nuanced genetic modifications that align with traditional evolutionary processes.

During the discussion, Adams highlighted the excitement surrounding CRISPR, noting its potential advantages over other plant breeding techniques. Specific opportunities for CRISPR include the development of crops with enhanced traits such as disease resistance or increased yield, while also addressing its limitations and contexts where it may not be suitable.

Collaborations and Industry Perspectives

Pairwise is actively engaging in both independent projects and partnerships to leverage their gene editing capabilities. They are capitalizing on new funding avenues, such as their recent $40 million Series C round, to expand their research and collaboration with major agricultural players like Corteva. These ventures aim to accelerate the development of gene-edited row crops and other agricultural innovations.

Adams also addressed the regulatory landscape, comparing CRISPR with more traditional genetic engineering tools. The evolving perceptions around gene editing technology among regulators could further expedite its integration into mainstream agricultural practices and broaden its acceptance in various markets.

In conclusion, CRISPR technology represents a pivotal shift in plant breeding, with Pairwise at the forefront of this transformation. By offering a precise, fast, and regulatory-friendly alternative to traditional methods, gene editing could play a crucial role in the future of agriculture, enhancing food production efficiency and potentially revolutionizing crop attributes.

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