Reference #: 00211
The University of South Carolina is offering licensing opportunities for this technology
Invention Description:
This invention is a method of increasing the expression of a desired gene product. Compared with USC Tech Id#126, here the target gene or sequence is silenced, which prevents the production of gene products. Therefore, the plant’s natural immune system (cosuppression) is intentionally activated.
Potential Applications:
The subject methods can be used to produce peptides or proteins that cannot effectively be expressed in mammalian systems because the protein interferes with cell viability, cell proliferation, cellular differentiation, or protein assembly in mammalian cells. Such proteins include but are not limited to retinoblastoma protein, p53, angiostatin and leptin. Proteins, hormones, growth factors, cytokines, insulin, growth hormone, interferon, serum albumin, hemoglobin, collagen, et al. could be produced. Also, plants having increased expression of multiple target sequences can be produced.
Generally, expression of the target sequence (gene of interest) is increased at least about 25-50%, preferably about 50-100%, more preferably about 100%, 200% and greater above the expression observed in conventional transgenic (genetically engineered) lines without any observable (to the naked eye) negative effects on the plant.
Advantages and Benefits:
This technique enables the researcher to manipulate the plants’ immune system in order to produce gene products with increased speed, efficiency, and quantity. Target genes of interest include those encoding agronomic (pertaining to field-crop production and soil management) traits, insect resistance, sterility, grain characteristics, and the like. The genes may be involved in metabolism of oil, starch, carbohydrates, nutrients, etc.