Climate change is creating challenges for agriculture by intensifying adverse growing conditions. Pairwise aims to address this by using cutting-edge CRISPR technology, including proprietary enzymes and base editors, to develop crops that can better tolerate these conditions. Founded by pioneers in gene editing, the company has produced less-bitter mustard greens and works on sturdier corn, blackberries, and other crops.
These genetically edited plants are designed to be shorter and more robust, potentially reducing the need for fertilizer and insecticides while allowing denser planting. The ability to grow crops in enclosed hoop houses could especially benefit farmers in poorer regions by protecting plants from extreme weather. Collaborations with the Gates Foundation and Mars target vital crops like yams and cacao that face climate-driven threats.
While promising, Pairwise has yet to bring climate-adapted crops to market, so the real-world impact remains to be seen. Regulatory and consumer acceptance of CRISPR-edited foods is still uncertain compared to traditional GMO technologies. The company continues field trials and plans to expand its genetically edited crop offerings, with multiple successful edits demonstrated to date.
👉 Pročitaj original: MIT Technology Review
