March 11, 2014
Evogene launches Plant Networks version 2.0 computational platform
Evogene Ltd. announced enhanced capabilities for gene stacking prediction with the introduction of PlaNet (Plant Networks) version 2.0 computational platform which includes more than doubling of the platform''s interaction data sources and types, and improved algorithms for data analysis.
Evogene is already in advance stages of development of the next generation of their gene stacking capabilities with a mining platform that will allow them to evaluate and prioritise multi-gene combinations at the initiation of the gene selection process.
Gene stacking prediction refers to the combination of multiple genes to improve a particular trait, or several traits, in order to enhance the productivity of seed products, either via biotechnology or advanced breeding applications. Gene stacking is increasingly seen by the agriculture industry as essential for enhancing the efficacy of complex traits such as yield improvement.
PlaNet is part of Evogene''s Gene2ProductTM multi-platform solution designed to improve trait efficacy by high throughput optimisation of a candidate gene''s functionality in target crops. More specifically, PlaNet is designed to predict the most promising genes to combine with the selected candidate gene to improve a desired trait. The platform applies advanced algorithms on multiple interaction data layers derived from various data sources and types. Evogene capabilities in the field of gene stacking utilise the company''s proprietary database which today incorporates and integrates more than five years of tailored-generated data for the development of optimal multi-gene prediction models.
PlaNet version 2.0 substantially improves gene stacking prediction capabilities by enhancing the quality and scope of the platform''s interaction data and the accuracy of its analysis tools. This is accomplished through more than doubling of the platform''s data sources and types, incorporating new and improved algorithms for data mining, and significant advancements to the platform''s statistical analysis capabilities. Through the utilisation of scoring and subsequent ranking of hundreds of millions of possible gene combinations, the platform is able to prioritise the selected combinations according to their predicted ability to improve the efficacy of a given gene.
"PlaNet forms an integral part of our proposition to our partners and is currently being adopted across our main product programmes," said Ofer Haviv, president and chief executive officer of Evogene. "Furthermore, Evogene is already in advance stages of development of the next generation of our gene stacking capabilities with a mining platform that will allow us to evaluate and prioritise multi-gene combinations at the initiation of the gene selection process."
Evogene is a plant genomics company, utilising a proprietary integrated technology infrastructure to enhance seed traits underlying crop productivity. Evogene offers a complete solution for crop productivity improvement through biotechnology and advanced breeding using a unique technology infrastructure that is based on a deep scientific understanding of plant genomics and proprietary computational capabilities.