Breakthrough Research Reveals First New Mode of Nitrogen Action for Crops this Century

Peer-reviewed study demonstrates how gene-edited nitrogen-fixing microbes can provide essential nutrients to cereal crops

AMES, Iowa. November 14, 2024 – New research published in Scientific Reports describes a breakthrough in nitrogen fertilizer technology. Conducted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Purdue University and Pivot Bio, the study shows that gene-edited microbes can fix nitrogen from the air and feed it to cereal plants’ roots, providing the essential nutrient to crops.

The study highlights PROVEN® 40, Pivot Bio’s second-generation corn product, which introduces the first new mode of nitrogen action this century. It includes lab and field evidence of nitrogen fixation.

In field trials, researchers used isotopic experiments to confirm nitrogen fixation in real-world conditions and measure plant nitrogen levels. On average, plants treated with PROVEN 40 showed higher nitrogen levels early in the season with no yield loss, despite a reduction of 35-40 pounds of synthetic fertilizer per acre. This suggests PROVEN 40 can be integrated into nutrient management plans while maintaining crop productivity.

“Farmers value science-based tools that are practical for their operations,” says Ernie Sanders, senior vice president of product innovation at Pivot Bio. “This peer-reviewed research provides a tangible way for farmers to minimize risks associated with nitrogen loss without sacrificing yields. It’s a step forward in simultaneously enhancing both efficiency and environmental stewardship. “

PROVEN 40 is the most-tested microbial nitrogen product available, backed by over a decade of research, 60 patents and 250 pending patent applications worldwide. Its effectiveness and reliability have been validated in 6,147 fields across 34 states, reaching over 2,518 farmers and millions of acres. Trials at more than 20 top universities, including those involved in this latest research, have confirmed its effectiveness.

The full paper can be found in Scientific Reports.

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Interview with Ryan Van Roekel, Ph.D., Pivot Bio senior manager of commercial agronomy –
Ryan Van Roekel, Pivot Bio (2:38)

About Pivot Bio:
Pivot Bio, one of the world’s most innovative ag tech companies, is delivering farmers patented crop nutrition technologies that harness the power of nature to reliably and productively grow the food the world needs in the face of increasing volatility. Available in North America and soon in Brazil, Pivot Bio’s efficiency-enhancing, purpose-built microbes optimize production through specifically placed and timed nitrogen delivery. The company’s microbial nitrogen solutions seamlessly integrate with traditional nitrogen sources, enabling the replacement of the most inefficient forms of conventional fertilizer. As a foundational source, Pivot Bio optimizes nitrogen management, helping growers achieve better ROI, enhanced plant health, and improved stewardship by delivering the right source at the right time. These solutions not only maximize fertilizer performance but also improve nitrogen use efficiency and mitigate risks associated with nitrogen loss, ensuring resilient and productive farming for today and tomorrow. Recognized twice by Time magazine on its annual list of best inventions and by Fast Company, CNBC and Fortune, Pivot Bio is at the forefront of sustainable agriculture innovation. For more information, visit PivotBio.com.

Media Contacts:
Carmen Fenton
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Erin Loesing
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