Key Takeaways:
- Spearhead Bio introduces TAHITI, a gene insertion technology that uses a plant’s natural DNA-editing system to integrate traits in crops.
- The startup is spun out of the Danforth Technology Company and backed by multiple investors including Rovaq Ventures and St. Louis BioGenerator.
- TAHITI is positioned as a complementary tool to CRISPR, addressing limitations in targeted gene insertion.
- The platform supports both transgenic and non-transgenic applications in crop development.
- Research behind TAHITI was published in Nature and supported by grants from the NSF and NobleReach Foundation.
Technology Overview of Spearhead Bio: TAHITI System
Spearhead Bio, a new agbiotech startup launched by the Danforth Technology Company (DTC), is introducing the Transposase Assisted Homology Independent Targeted Insertion (TAHITI) system. This platform enables precise integration of genetic traits into crops without relying solely on traditional homologous recombination techniques. The method utilizes a plant’s existing transposase mechanisms to improve efficiency and predictability in genome engineering.
The system is applicable across both transgenic and non-transgenic crops, offering a potentially accelerated pathway to trait development.
Leadership and Scientific Background
Spearhead Bio was founded by Dr. Keith Slotkin, Principal Investigator at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Slotkin, who led the development of the TAHITI system, will serve as Chief Scientific Officer. Tom Laurita, current CEO of Danforth Technology Company, will lead the company as CEO.
“Our goal is to unlock the full potential of plant genetics using the tools nature already provides,” said Slotkin.
Laurita added, “While CRISPR offers a mechanism to remove or cut DNA, there is a need for complementary tools to insert new traits precisely. TAHITI provides this capability.”
Funding and Support For Spearhead Bio
Spearhead Bio’s formation is backed by an oversubscribed funding round. Investors include:
- DTC
- Rovaq Ventures
- St. Louis BioGenerator
- The Helix Fund
- Hjelle Consulting Group
- Alta Grow Consulting
The TAHITI system was first developed through research funded by multiple grants from the National Science Foundation and commercial readiness support from the NobleReach Foundation. The foundational research was featured in the June 2024 edition of Nature.
Advisory Board
The company’s Scientific Advisory Board features several experienced industry professionals:
- Dr. Larry Gilbertson, former biotech leader at Monsanto and Bayer
- Dr. Jerry Hjelle, President, Hjelle Advisors
- Dr. Jon Lightner, former VP of Biotech, Pioneer Hi-Bred International
Next Steps For Spearhead Bio
Spearhead Bio plans to apply its TAHITI platform to develop crop traits that align with farmer needs while aiming for streamlined regulatory pathways and market acceptance. Pilot projects will focus on integrating traits such as disease resistance, yield improvement, and climate resilience.
“We are excited to use our TAHITI technology to generate the next generation of improved crops,” said Slotkin.
