Pairwise is expanding the reach of its CRISPR gene editing platform as demand grows across specialty crops, livestock, and microbial sectors. The company reported a significant rise in licensing agreements for its Fulcrum platform over the last 18 months. Currently, 25 licensees are applying this technology to more than 30 species, ranging from cacao and yams to insects used for pest control.
COO Ian Miller notes that the regulatory environment is becoming more favorable for gene-edited products. New rules in Europe and other regions now distinguish gene editing from transgenic modifications because the process involves working with a plant's existing native genes. This shift allows for faster development cycles and greater precision in breeding compared to older methods. By modifying native genetic structures, researchers can address specific traits like yield, disease resistance, and plant architecture.
To simplify adoption, Pairwise provides access to a comprehensive suite of editing tools through a single platform. Instead of managing multiple individual licenses, companies can access a one-stop shop for CRISPR technology. This structure covers various editing techniques, including nuclease, base, and templated editing. The business model combines upfront fees with royalties to lower the barrier for organizations, including nonprofits and national research agencies, to enter the space.
Perennial and specialty crops are seeing some of the most immediate benefits. Conventional breeding for these plants often spans many years due to long generation times. Pairwise has demonstrated the capability to introduce traits like compact plant architecture or seedless fruit in much shorter timeframes. This work includes projects on blackberries and cherries, which are traditionally difficult to modify using standard breeding techniques.
As the company moves beyond row crops like corn and soy, it is building a knowledge base that spans diverse species. By understanding gene networks across different plants, researchers can apply insights from one crop to another. This approach creates a cycle of improvement that is opening new possibilities for agriculture in regions that were previously underserved by high-tech breeding investment.