GustoDevelopment and EvoDvo Tech Collaborate on Advanced AI Breeding Techniques

GustoDevelopment and EvoDvo Tech Partnership

GustoDevelopment Inc., based in Tochigi, Japan, has announced a strategic partnership with EvoDvo Tech, a biotech startup emerging from Tokushima University. This collaboration aims to leverage advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance precision breeding processes, addressing the urgent needs of food security and sustainability in the face of climate change and a growing global population.

Background of the Joint Research

The development of new crop varieties that are resilient to environmental stressors while also maximizing yield has become critical. Traditional breeding methods can take over a decade and require substantial investment with uncertain success rates. This partnership seeks to combine EvoDvo Tech’s expertise in developmental and evolutionary biology with GustoDevelopment’s strengths in AI and data analytics. The goal is to create a seamless model, aptly named ‘Design-to-Delivery,’ which will facilitate the digital transformation (DX) of the breeding process, from initial design to final product delivery.

Overview of the Joint Research

1. Development of AI Algorithms for Optimal Precision Breeding
Using the vast reservoir of genetic expression data stored within the Evo2 DNA language model of the Arc Institute, GustoDevelopment plans to apply machine learning techniques. This approach will allow AI to predict the most effective breeding methods necessary to achieve desirable traits, such as increased yields or specific nutrient enhancements, thereby significantly reducing the number of cycles in the Design-Build-Test-Learn process utilized by EvoDvo Tech for precision breeding.

2. Proof of Concept for High-Throughput Rapid Breeding Pipelines
Based on AI predictions, experiments will be conducted using precision breeding techniques. The aim is to dramatically shorten development times and enhance cost efficiency compared to traditional breeding cycles.

3. Exploration of New Business Developments with SaaS Platforms
The long-term vision includes commercializing this AI breeding system into a platform accessible to external seed companies, food manufacturers, and material development firms. This initiative will support the advancement of the global food and biotech industries.

Comments from Company Representatives

Kou Yuu Ai, CEO of GustoDevelopment
“We are thrilled to embark on this new venture with EvoDvo Tech, which possesses a robust technical foundation from Tokushima University. The intersection of biotechnology and AI holds remarkable potential to transform industries at unprecedented speeds. Our technological capabilities will accelerate the social implementation of research seeds and contribute to a sustainable future.”

Sumiharu Noji, CEO of EvoDvo Tech
“For many years, we have been delving into the mechanisms of biological evolution and development. This collaboration with GustoDevelopment enables us to implement cutting-edge AI technologies into our research outcomes. We are confident that this will transform unpredictable breeding into predictable precision breeding, facilitating the rapid introduction of innovative varieties to the market.”

Company Profiles

EvoDvo Tech

EvoDvo Tech is a startup originating from Tokushima University, headquartered at the Bio-Innovation Research Institute.
Location: 2272-2 Ishii, Ishii Town, Nishi-gun, Tokushima, 779-3233, Japan
Representative: Sumiharu Noji
Website: evodvotech.com
Business Focus: Research and development in gene analysis and precision breeding technologies, and related biotechnology services.

GustoDevelopment

GustoDevelopment specializes in AI system development and new business support.
Location: 1-15-32 Katanaguchi, Tochigi, 328-0053, Japan
Representative: Kou Yuu Ai
Website: gustodevelopment.com
Business Focus: AI and system development, support for new business projects, and blockchain-related services.