Our dream is to completely elucidate the genetics of vegetables. In the theme ‘Genetic Strategies and High Throughput Genotyping’ we develop the tools to do so. Using precise molecular tools and genetic knowledge as a basis, our customers will be able to develop new varieties in a precise manner that is currently unequalled (Breeding by Design™). This approach can lead to a better yield, a better taste, adaptations to the environment and broad resistances to diseases and plagues. This is in contrast to the existing methods, which are based on classic selection by breeders.
‘Genetic Strategies and High Throughput Genotyping’ provides tools and technologies which accelerate the breeding process and generate breakthroughs by the use of genetic markers. This theme aims to strengthen further the leading position that, on the basis of its patented AFLP® and SNPWave® technologies, KeyGene already occupies in this field. We foresee the introduction of even more precise molecular technologies. The theme starts with the development of new technologies in order to identify and use marker variations on a massive scale, known as ‘High Throughput Genotyping’, and is extended to include the application of these marker technologies in breeding concepts; ‘Genetic Strategies’.
A major breakthrough is our proprietary CRoPS™ (Complexity Reduction of Polymorphic Sequences) technology, which is based on the genome complexity reduction power of AFLP® combined with the ultra high throughput sequencing technology of 454 Life Sciences. This enables the large scale screening of DNA from identical regions of the genome of different plant varieties. This technology provides breakthrough applications for large-scale SNP and microsatellite (SSR) discoveries and SNP/SSR detections and a series of other applications in non-sequenced large genome (plant) species.
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