Yulex to use gene technology to double latex yield

Maricopa, Arizona - Yulex Corp., the US Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), and Mendel Biotechnology have signed an agreement to develop and field test proprietary guayule plants with enhanced natural rubber latex yields and increased biomass. Mendel Biotechnology is a closely-held private company involved in genetic modification of plants.

“Using our expertise in plant regulatory genes and proprietary technology in transferring these genes, we are optimistic that we can create improved varieties of guayule that will make twice as much rubber,” said Dr. Robert Creelman, senior scientist at Mendel Biotechnology.

The goal of collaboration is to increase the amount of latex, rubber, and biomass the plant produces. Over the next three years, Yulex Corporation, Mendel Biotechnology, and USDA scientists will test the new guayule transgenic lines and enhanced rubber biosynthesis genes for yield improvements as well as stress tolerance. Yulex will conduct latex extraction and chemical tests, the USDA-ARS will perform agronomic, chemical and biochemical tests, and Mendel will carry out molecular tests on the new transgenic guayule plants.

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Press release from Yulex

Website of Mendel Biotechnology (US)