ROTAC targeted protein degraders can address resistance mechanisms developed by plants against existing agricultural solutions
Image: John Dombrosky has been named as CEO of Oerth Bio. Photo: courtesy of Bayer AG.
Bayer and Arvinas have concluded the terms of their agreement to launch a targeted protein degradation joint venture (JV), Oerth Bio.
Oerth Bio is a new company that will leverage Arvinas’ expertise in targeted protein degradation, as well as Bayer’s experience in the development of both human therapies and sustainable agricultural technologies.
Bayer crop science division R&D head Bob Reiter said: “We are incredibly excited to be a part of this first exploration of PROTAC technology in agriculture.
“This alliance is a unique combination of expertise to truly shape the future of agriculture. The work that will be done by Oerth Bio could help farmers overcome the diseases, pests and weeds that lead to lost crop yields every year.”
Bayer will support the new company by providing intellectual property and more than $55m funding, while Arvinas will offer technology and intellectual property to Arvinas.
Both firms will equally share governance and equity ownership in the new company. Oerth Bio will have a team with major scientists, as well as operates as an independent and sustainable organisation.
PROTAC targeted protein degraders can develop solutions to control weeds, insects, and disease
PROTAC targeted protein degraders, which are being developed by Arvinas for human health applications, also hold the capability to develop solutions for the controlling of weeds, insects, and disease.
PROTAC protein degraders are believed to address resistance mechanisms developed by plants against existing agricultural solutions.
Arvinas president and CEO John Houston said: “At Arvinas, we believe Oerth Bio has the potential to extend the power of our PROTAC technology into agricultural science, where we hope it will significantly impact the resilience and durability of our food supply.
“With extensive expertise in crop science, funding, and company building, John is an ideal fit to lead Oerth Bio and will certainly serve the company well in its mission and build upon the promise of PROTAC protein degraders.”