In September 2019, Astalake Biosystems, Inc. received a $106,500 USDA SBIR Phase I award to advance corn biotechnology through innovative regulation of lignin biosynthesis.
The project explored genetic engineering approaches designed to improve forage digestibility and nutritional quality while supporting crop yield and biomass performance. This research contributed to the development of AFINGEN® technology, supporting innovation in the U.S. agricultural bioeconomy.