Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1997-2003
Title: Milton Zaitlin: Innovator in Plant Viral Resistance
Introduction
Milton Zaitlin is a notable inventor based in Ithaca, NY (US), recognized for his contributions to the field of plant biotechnology. He holds a total of 4 patents that focus on enhancing viral resistance in plants through innovative methods.
Latest Patents
Zaitlin's latest patents include groundbreaking inventions aimed at inducing resistance to virus diseases in plants. One significant patent describes a method for transferring virus-induced resistance from one plant generation to another. This invention involves transgenic plants that contain a coding sequence from the replicase portion of the viral genome, making them resistant to subsequent infections by the virus. A specific example highlighted in this patent is the use of the 54 kDa coding sequence from Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV). This technology provides a means to achieve viral resistance in plants transformed with nucleic acid copies of segments from the pathogenic virus genome.
Another important patent focuses on implanting disease resistance in plants using viral replicase DNA. This method involves isolating a fragment of viral RNA or DNA associated with the replicase portion of the virus genome. By integrating a DNA copy of this isolated fragment into the genome of a recipient plant, the plant becomes transformed and gains resistance to RNA or DNA viruses that are pathogenic to it.
Career Highlights
Milton Zaitlin is affiliated with Cornell University, where he has made significant strides in plant research and biotechnology. His work has contributed to the understanding of plant-virus interactions and the development of transgenic plants with enhanced resistance to viral diseases.
Collaborations
Zaitlin has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Daniel Golemboski and George Peter Lomonossoff, furthering research in the field of plant biotechnology and viral resistance.
Conclusion
Milton Zaitlin's innovative work in plant viral resistance has paved the way for advancements in agricultural biotechnology. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing plant health and resilience against viral threats, contributing to the future of sustainable agriculture.