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New Brunswisk, New Jersey
June 14, 2001
Senesco Technologies, Inc. ("Senesco" or the "Company")(OTC
BB: SENO) announced today that its cut flower research and
development program has achieved significant advances in the
extension of the shelf life of cut carnation flowers.
In addition to the isolation of a senescence (aging) induced
lipase gene from carnation flowers, the
Company has now demonstrated that its proprietary DHS and Factor
5A genes can be used to extend shelf life in cut carnation
flowers. By inhibiting the DHS and Factor 5A genes, the Company
has increased the shelf life of cut carnation flowers by
approximately 100%, from six days to about twelve days.
"The ability to control aging in cut flowers is extremely
valuable," explained Dr. John Thompson,
Senesco's Executive Vice President of Research and Development.
"The primary technology used by the cut flower industry is based
on ethylene, a plant hormone. However, a substantial number of
plants do not control senescence through ethylene, thereby
limiting the application of this technology. In contrast,
Senesco's technology has universal application since its DHS and
Factor 5A genes may be used to control the aging of all cut
flowers."
Ruedi Stalder, Senesco's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer,
summarized the commercial implications of these developments by
noting, "The cut flower industry is in need of a new and
universal means to extend shelf life. The industry recognizes
that the use of silver thiosulfate to inhibit ethylene-induced
aging may be banned due to its toxicity. Senesco's technology
has broader applicability and is a safer alternative. We look
forward to sharing these advances with the industry."
Senesco is a gene discovery company whose mission is to enhance
crop quality and productivity through the control of senescence
(aging) in plants, which results in longer shelf life, increased
crop yield, increased biomass and greater tolerance to
environmental stress in fruits, flowers, vegetables and
agronomic crops. The Company is based in New Brunswick, New
Jersey.
Consistent with the Company's commercialization strategy,
Senesco is engaged in discussions with several companies
interested in entering into licensing agreements and strategic
relationships for the use of the Company's technology.
Company news release
N3586 |
