About plant cell Technology and & PPM

The Brutnell lab is focused on understanding photosynthetic differentiation and, in particular, identifying the transcriptional networks that drive C4 photosynthetic development. Applications of this research include improving photosynthetic efficiencies in emerging bioenergy feedstocks such as Miscanthus and switchgrass, as well as improving yield in existing C4 crops such as maize, sorghum and sugarcane. The lab is also working with a large international consortium to engineer C4 traits into C3 grasses.

Plant Cell Technology has introduced a novel, heat-stable preservative and biocide named PPM Affiplant (Plant Preservative Mixture), specifically designed to effectively mitigate microbial contamination in plant tissue culture. When applied at optimal concentrations, PPM Affiplant proves to be an exceptionally potent preservative and biocide, while still permitting unimpeded in vitro seed germination, callus proliferation, and callus regeneration.

Even with the utmost adherence to sterile techniques, the issue of contamination in plant cell and plant tissue cultures persists as a constant challenge, potentially resulting in losses that range from individual culture batches to entire batches. PPM plays a crucial role in inhibiting the germination of both bacterial and fungal spores. Notably, it maintains its stability under high temperatures and can undergo autoclaving with the growth media. PPM  is recommended as a standard component in plant tissue culture media and offers a cost-effective alternative to commonly used antibiotics.

While PPM was primarily developed to counteract airborne contamination and contaminants introduced through water or human contact, it can, in numerous cases, also aid in reducing endogenous contamination.

Dr. Assaf Guri, a prominent scientist at PCT, played a pivotal role in developing the application of PPM. Dr. Guri holds degrees in genetics, applied genetics, and plant breeding from prestigious institutions such as the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and Michigan State University in the United States. Prior to joining Plant Cell Technology.