US20250376424
2025-12-11
Chemistry; metallurgy
C05C3/00
The patent application introduces non-intergeneric remodeled microbes that efficiently fix atmospheric nitrogen and deliver it directly to plants. This method aims to enhance crop yields sustainably without relying on traditional synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which often result in environmental degradation. By mitigating the need for exogenous nitrogen fertilizers, these microbes promise a more predictable and environmentally friendly agricultural practice.
Traditional nitrogen fertilizers are produced through the Haber-Bosch process, which is resource-intensive and environmentally harmful. In contrast, the remodeled microbes offer a sustainable alternative by naturally fixing nitrogen through biological processes. This approach reduces the environmental footprint of agriculture, minimizing issues such as nutrient leaching, toxic runoff, and soil degradation.
The remodeled microbes are engineered to colonize plant roots, delivering nitrogen in a spatially and temporally targeted manner. This precision ensures that nitrogen is available to the plant during critical growth stages, enhancing nutrient uptake efficiency. The microbes can replace conventional fertilizer application methods, like sidedressing, by directly supplying nitrogen to the plant's rhizosphere.
These microbes have demonstrated the potential to increase crop yields, particularly in cereal plants like corn, wheat, and rice. By providing a consistent nitrogen supply, they help reduce infield yield variability and improve overall crop performance. The application of these microbes can lead to significant yield gains, even in challenging soil conditions, without the need for additional nitrogen fertilizers.
The use of non-intergeneric remodeled microbes represents a significant advancement in agricultural biotechnology. By reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers, this innovation supports the goal of increasing global food production sustainably. The method aligns with the need to meet growing food demands while minimizing environmental impacts, offering a promising solution for future agricultural practices.