Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, and ExSeed Genetics L.L.C. have announced an exclusive worldwide research and licensing agreement that covers a key starch synthesis gene in corn.

This technology is anticipated to have an impact on not only starch yield, but also on adding value to the "end use" of the grain in processing and/or animal feeding. Because starch is the major component of corn seed, this gene could hold the secret for the "operating system" of starch deposition in corn.

"This collaboration, combined with ExSeed's proprietary starch synthesis gene technology, strengthens our current positions in starch and seed biotechnology," says Dr. Peter Keeling, director of research at ExSeed Genetics.

Iowa State University and ExSeed Genetics are leaders in the field of agricultural biotechnology. Both hold several patents applicable to improvements in a variety of commercial and research initiatives in agriculture.

ExSeed provides value enhanced grains to food, feed, and industrial markets under the brand ExSeed Enhanced(TM), offering genetic products with increased benefits, over commodity grain.

ExSeed Genetics recently announced the release of two low-phytate corn varieties that will be available throughout the United States for the 1999 growing season. NutriDense LP (TM) and Yellow Dent LP (TM) are the first low-phytate corn varieties available to swine and poultry producers.