BASF has announced a global licensing agreement with the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard to use a CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing technology for agriculture and industrial microbiology. This gene-editing tool is simpler and more precise than previous technology for making targeted changes in the DNA, providing a quicker and less expensive method to benefit agriculture.

“The CRISPR-Cas9 technology is a game changer within the field of genome editing,” said Peter Eckes, President of BASF Bioscience Research. “We are eager to see the new ways it will augment our research and improve multiple products for agriculture as well as numerous industrial applications.”

“This technology represents a transformative application of genome editing for the research community,” adds Issi Rozen, chief business officer of the Broad Institute. “CRISPR-Cas9 can directly benefit advanced research across many industries including human health and agriculture. We are proud to partner with stakeholders throughout the biomedical and agriculture community to help deliver responsible solutions for our planet.”