Advanced Bacillus Biotech: Crop Protection & Growth Solution
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed compositions comprising recombinant Bacillus cells and an insecticide, but it had limitations in terms of specificity, efficacy, and environmental impact. The present invention addresses these limitations by envisioning a next-generation system that integrates multiple functionalities, including plant growth stimulation and pest management, in a single, rhizosphere-targeted approach.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in plant growth and pest management by integrating multiple functionalities in a single, rhizosphere-targeted approach. The use of recombinant Bacillus cells to produce a novel, synergistic combination of plant growth stimulating compounds and insecticides, and the adaptation of these cells to thrive in a specific rhizosphere environment, are both new and non-obvious compared to the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include the use of different types of microorganisms, such as fungi or yeast, or the integration of additional functionalities, such as nitrogen fixation or drought tolerance. Variations of the system could also include different formulations or delivery methods, such as seed coatings or foliar sprays.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in the agriculture and biotechnology industries, with potential applications in precision agriculture, crop protection, and sustainable agriculture practices. The target market includes farmers, agricultural companies, and biotechnology firms seeking innovative solutions for plant growth and pest management.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A01 | A01N63/23 |
| A | A01 | A01N37/40 |
| A | A01 | A01N37/52 |
| A | A01 | A01N41/10 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/12 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/24 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/40 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/56 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/653 |
| A | A01 | A01N43/713 |
| A | A01 | A01N47/06 |
| A | A01 | A01N47/22 |
| A | A01 | A01N47/24 |
| A | A01 | A01N47/34 |
| A | A01 | A01N57/08 |
| A | A01 | A01N57/14 |
| A | A01 | A01N63/50 |
| A | A01 | A01N51/00 |
| A | A01 | A01N55/00 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Agricultural biotechnology, microbial engineering, and pest management, with expertise in recombinant microorganism design, enzyme engineering, and biological pest control strategies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled researcher with advanced degrees in microbiology or agricultural biotechnology, experienced in genetic modification of Bacillus species, enzyme engineering, and understanding of microbial interactions in agricultural ecosystems
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core technology of recombinant Bacillus cells producing fusion proteins. The proposed modifications involve standard genetic engineering techniques and known approaches to enhancing microbial performance in agricultural settings. The combination of plant growth stimulation and insecticide production represents a logical progression of the source patent's foundational biotechnological approach.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,956 |
|---|---|
| Title | Compositions comprising recombinant Bacillus cells and an insecticide |
| Assignee(s) | BASF SE |