AgroPages-NRGene's Genomic Analysis Project With Monsanto Advances-Agricultural news

NRGene announced that the company has progressed in its multi-year agreement with Monsanto Company.

NRGene has integrated part of Monsanto's genomic data into GenoMAGICTM, a cloud-based big data analytics platform, thereby allowing Monsanto to evaluate the ability of the integrated platform to predict, compare and select the best genetic makeup for molecular breeding.

"We have been impressed with NRGene's integrated analytics platform so far and look forward to evaluating its impact on our molecular breeding program," said Dr. Tom Osborn, Molecular Breeding Technology Director for Monsanto.

GenoMAGICTM was developed by a unique mix of highly experienced algorithm designers, software engineers, plant breeders, and plant geneticists and is used by seed companies like Monsanto and major academic and research institutions around the world to support the fight against world hunger. Genomes from NRGene include key global food crops like wheat, maize, sorghum, and sweet potatoes.

"Comprehensive genome analysis is the next major step to accelerate development of the new generation of crops," said Dr. Gil Ronen, Chief Executive Officer of NRGene. "If successful, the GenoMAGICTM platform will improve Monsanto's genomics and trait data evaluation to enable more efficient development of new varieties."

Monsanto's R&D pipeline encompasses a broad range of solutions to help farmers mitigate the complex challenges they face on the farm - whether caused by pests, disease or weather - while improving their productivity and environmental sustainability. GenoMAGICTM delivers greater breadth and depth to Monsanto's ability to discover traits, enhance genomes, and for genomic selection.