Seed Today

PSR’s Conversion Service is Approved for Regulated Traits

Sugar Grove, IL (May 17, 2007) -- The USDA-APHIS has approved Professional Seed Research Inc. (PSR) for the handling of regulated genes. In addition, all trait providers (Monsanto, Dupont, Syngenta and Dow) have approved the PSR conversion service for regulated and unregulated traits in corn.

“Our cost-effective conversion service allows our customers to get a jump-start on the latest upcoming traits”, states Matt Dodd, VP Marketing. With the use of the Phenotype Select™ screening system and USDA approved greenhouses, PSR is able to speed backcrossing by 3-4 generations.

PSR Global Genetics LLC, a sister company of Professional Seed Research Inc., is developing a large number of inbred lines that can be quickly converted with regulated and non-regulated genes. “This allows the advantage of producing donor parents from our proprietary genetics, reducing the number of backcross generations required by the trait providers”, says Jim Dodd, CEO. PSR begins a conversion as soon as the customer receives approval by the trait provider.

“As the demand in backcrossing and seed testing of new traits increases we will continue to meet the industry requirements of our trait technology partners”, says Robert Johnson, VP Operations.

Established in 1987, Professional Seed Research, Inc. (PSR) provides Seed Testing, Corn Breeding and Pathology services to nearly 300 companies internationally. PSR's revolutionary SMF™ Technology increases efficiency in seed testing and accelerates maize breeding programs by more than four generations.