Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1996-2011
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Terry L. Thomas
Introduction
Terry L. Thomas, based in College Station, TX, is a notable inventor in the field of agricultural biotechnology. With an impressive portfolio of 22 patents, Thomas has significantly advanced the knowledge and application of plant defense mechanisms and genetic modification.
Latest Patents
Two of Terry L. Thomas's latest inventions focus on stem-regulated plant defense promoters for use in monocots. The first patent involves isolated promoters from stem-regulated, defense-inducible genes, specifically OMT promoters. This invention provides expression cassettes and expression vectors that enable the transformation of plants, especially rice and sugarcane, by directing the expression of heterologous coding sequences limited to stem tissues. Moreover, these promoters can be upregulated in response to defense-inducing agents, enhancing plant resilience. The second patent also deals with isolated promoters from stem-regulated, defense-inducible genes, specifically JAS promoters, offering similar functions and benefits for rice and sugarcane transformation. Both inventions include detailed methods for producing the expression vectors and transgenic plants, aiming to improve agricultural productivity and disease resistance.
Career Highlights
Terry L. Thomas has held positions at several prominent institutions, contributing to his expertise in plant genetics. He has worked with Rhone-Poulenc Agrochimie, a leading agricultural company, and the Texas A&M University System, where he has likely influenced future generations of scientists and researchers through his innovative work.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Thomas has collaborated with respected professionals in the field, including Georges L. Freyssinet and Michael Nuccio. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages the sharing of ideas and advancements in plant biotechnology.
Conclusion
Terry L. Thomas's contributions to agricultural biotechnology through his innovative patents and collaborations have made a significant impact on the industry. His work on stem-regulated, plant defense promoters exemplifies how targeted inventions can lead to advancements in crop resilience and agricultural efficiency. As the field continues to evolve, Thomas's inventions are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of plant science and technology.