INSERT LARGE DNA CARGO.
BUILD BETTER CROPS.
We harness the power of transposable elements to replace, insert, copy, rearrange, and stack large DNA sequences into plant genomes, massively expanding possible crop traits.
How it works:
Replace
Replace existing DNA sequences with new functional DNA.
Insert
Precisely insert large DNA sequences into custom locations.
Copy
Accurately copy and duplicate DNA sequences.
Rearrange
Reorder or reorganize DNA sequences to create new trait possibilities.
Stack
Stack multiple DNA sequences to combine traits and functions.
Our next-gen technology (TAHITI) is a major advancement in genome engineering. CRISPR pinpoints the genomic address, then TAHITI does the rest, utilizing the machinery nature evolved for moving large pieces of DNA: transposable elements. This gives you the power to control how and what you insert—faster, cheaper, and without foreign DNA.
THE CHALLENGE
Small edits limit the potential of genome engineering
CRISPR made small, targeted edits possible. Future crop innovation will require the precise insertion of large DNA sequences to truly create differentiated, high-value traits.
Legacy trait development is slow and expensive
Existing trait development approaches require extensive screening and repeated breeding cycles, driving up costs and extending timelines from discovery to commercial deployment.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Precise large DNA insertion and replacement unlocks trait innovation and efficiency
Agriculture needs a new class of genome engineering technology that enables precise large DNA insertion, expands trait possibilities, and improves development efficiency across GMO and gene editing crop programs.
One Technology Platform
for GMO and Non-GMO Traits
Spearhead Bio advances both GMO and non-GMO trait development:
GMO: Improves efficiency by reducing development time, costs, and screening burden.
Non-GMO: Enables powerful new traits without introducing foreign DNA.
GMO CROP DEVELOPMENT
Shorten traditional GMO development timelines while significantly reducing costs.
Precisely insert large DNA cargo into plant genomes, reducing reliance on random integration and the extensive screening required for commercial trait development.
NON-GMO CROP DEVELOPMENT
Achieve GMO-like outcomes without introducing foreign DNA.
Insert, copy, replace, rearrange, and stack native or same-species DNA sequences to create powerful new traits through a non-GMO development pathway.
PARTNER WITH SPEARHEAD BIO
Let’s build the next generation of crop traits together.
We work with seed companies, crop developers, agricultural biotechnology companies, specialty-crop innovators, and strategic research partners to develop high-value crop traits through precise insertion and replacement of large DNA cargo.
We welcome evaluation, development, and licensing collaborations across GMO and non-GMO crop programs.