|
PIM Technology
Athenix uses its proprietary Proteome Interaction Mapping (PIM) for the discovery of insect and nematode resistance genes.
Pest-specific toxins, such as the endotoxins from Bacillus thuringiensis, interact specifically with protein receptors in susceptible insects. We have developed a proprietary novel assay to screen for specific interactions between the proteomes of microbes and those of target pests.
This rapid in vitro assay is used to predict toxicity of a microbial strain toward a given target pest, including insects, nematodes, and fungi. This assay facilitates rapid and efficient discovery of commercially viable genes active against these pests. Our first targets are European corn borer, corn rootworm, and soybean cyst nematode.
This represents a breakthrough in screening for proteins active against target pests which have previously been difficult to assay. A new and exciting integrated strategy at Athenix will allow us to combine PIM technology with our protein and strain improvement strategies to create and detect proteins with greatly enhanced activity.
| 
