Chromatin has developed a novel approach to gene stacking, using the plant's own DNA to deliver several genes on a mini-chromosome. Under the agreement, Syngenta has obtained non-exclusive rights to use Chromatin ' s gene stacking technology for trait genes in corn and soybeans.

Growers need increasingly more sophisticated tools to meet the demands on the agriculture market, and stacked traits along with improved seed germplasm will be instrumental, said Roger Kemble, Head of Syngenta Crop Genetics Research. We will evaluate this technology in combination with our own innovative research programs and strong pipeline as part of our intense commitment to speed delivery of products to market.

Syngenta is a leading agribusiness company committed to developing crops that meet multiple needs. Chromatin is pleased to partner with Syngenta, whose trait gene inventory and crop production programs make them an ideal partner for us, said Daphne Preuss, Chromatin's Chief Scientific Officer and President.

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While it is standard for checking for genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis, a fatal and incurable condition caused by a single mutated gene, the ASRM says there is no evidence to support the use of the procedure to improve the odds of pregnancy for an older woman, or to reduce the rate of miscarriages.

ASRM president Dr. Steven Ory says 'the use of preimplantation genetic screening for chromosomal problems may one day become an essential component of infertility therapy, but for now, available evidence does not support its effectiveness and common usage'.

The warning is opportune as many women are now delaying having children and the ASRM says egg freezing should not be offered to women who want to put off having a family purely for lifestyle reasons.

The ASRM estimates that the overall live birth rate from frozen eggs is as low as 2% per egg and warns that the figures may be even lower for women over 35 - the age at which fertility begins to decline rapidly.