Genetically Engineered T Cells for Agricultural Pest Control and Environmental Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of genetically engineered T cells with Regnase-1 and/or TGFBRII disruption to develop novel applications in agricultural pest control, environmental monitoring, and bioremediation, offering a new paradigm for sustainable and targeted solutions.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed genetically engineered T cells with improved functionality and persistence for cancer treatment. However, the limitations of this technology in addressing other pressing issues, such as agricultural pest control and environmental pollution, were not fully explored. This inventive concept addresses these gaps by applying the core technology to new, non-obvious applications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves genetically engineering T cells with Regnase-1 and/or TGFBRII disruption to target specific pest species, enhance plant defense mechanisms, detect environmental pollutants, and facilitate bioremediation. These T cells can be engineered to express specific receptors or antigens, allowing them to selectively target and eliminate pests or pathogens. The CRISPR/Cas-mediated gene editing system can be used to introduce the desired genetic modifications. The resulting T cells can be administered to plants, soil, or water to achieve the desired effects.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of this inventive concept lies in the unexpected application of genetically engineered T cells with Regnase-1 and/or TGFBRII disruption to non-cancer, non-human health-related fields. The inventive step involves recognizing the potential of this technology to address pressing environmental and agricultural challenges, and developing new, non-obvious uses for the core technology.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of this inventive concept could include using different gene editing systems, such as TALEN or ZFN, or engineering T cells to target specific disease-causing pathogens in plants or animals. Variations could also involve using the T cells in combination with other technologies, such as precision agriculture or bioreactors, to enhance their effectiveness.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The potential commercial applications of this inventive concept are vast, with potential markets in agricultural pest control, environmental monitoring, and bioremediation. The technology could be licensed to companies developing sustainable agricultural practices, environmental monitoring systems, or bioremediation solutions, offering a new revenue stream and opportunities for growth.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Cellular biotechnology, specifically genetic engineering of immune cells with a focus on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing techniques for modifying T cell functionality
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A PhD-level molecular biologist or bioengineering researcher with expertise in CRISPR gene editing, cell modification techniques, and experience in genetic manipulation of immune cells
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the core genetic engineering approach of disrupting Regnase-1 and TGFBRII genes can be readily extended to non-medical applications by applying the same fundamental gene editing techniques to different cellular targeting strategies. The CRISPR/Cas system provides a versatile platform for genetic modification that can be adapted across various biological contexts. The technical principles of gene disruption and cellular engineering demonstrated in the source patent create a clear pathway for exploring alternative applications in agricultural and environmental domains.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,574 |
|---|---|
| Title | Genetically engineered T cells with Regnase-1 and/or TGFBRII disruption have improved functionality and persistence |
| Assignee(s) | CRISPR THERAPEUTICS AG |