University of Illinois Study Highlights the Potential of Pivot Bio’s Gene-Edited Microbes

A landmark study from the University of Illinois, published in Agronomy Journal, showcases the transformative potential of Pivot Bio’s patented gene-edited microbes as an essential third source of nitrogen for corn production.

Using proprietary gene-editing technology, Pivot Bio’s PROVEN® 40 transforms naturally occurring soil bacteria into efficient nitrogen-fixing factories for corn plants. These microbes supply nitrogen during key vegetative growth stages, supplementing synthetic fertilizers and manure while improving crop resilience.

Abbott added, “With nearly 15 years of innovation and over 15 million cumulative acres, we’ve gained deep insights into how our technology integrates into nitrogen management strategies. This research reaffirms the measurable benefits of PROVEN® 40 and sets the foundation for continued development.”

Key Findings from the Research

The University of Illinois research team examined the effects of inoculating corn plants with Pivot Bio’s gene-edited microbes to improve nitrogen availability. The multiyear study found:

• Enhanced Plant Nitrogen Uptake During Critical Growth Stages: Treated plants exhibited greater nitrogen accumulation, healthier biomass, and stronger vegetative growth during early growth stages.
• Direct Evidence of Atmospheric
  • Direct Evidence of Atmospheric-Derived Nitrogen Absorption:
  • A measurable decrease in the isotope ¹⁵N in treated plants confirmed that nitrogen fixed by PROVEN® 40 microbes was absorbed by the corn plants.
  • A Reliable In-Season Nitrogen Contribution:
  • PROVEN® 40 delivered up to 35 pounds of nitrogen per acre from the atmosphere during early growth. While nitrogen contributions tapered off later in the season, the product consistently supported crop health and stability during the critical vegetative stage, without compromising yields.
• “This work underscores the untapped potential of atmospheric nitrogen in corn production,” said
  Logan Woodward, a Ph.D. in crop production and lead researcher on the study.
  “Corn is often limited to soil nitrogen and fertilizer, and one or both of these sources can fail growers in challenging weather conditions.
  When we applied PROVEN® 40, we observed significant increases in plant nitrogen accumulation, with a measurable portion of that nitrogen derived from the atmosphere.
  Additionally, these improvements coincided with an increase in kernel numbers, indicating increased nitrogen availability during vegetative growth and a resulting boost in yield potential.”

• Source – PivotBio