PitchBook Analyst Note: Applications for Synthetic Biology in Agriculture

Synthetic bio: farming’s future

Modifying the genetic codes of plants sounds like the experiments of a mad scientist, but it could in fact be the key that unlocks the future of farming. That’s according to our latest analyst note, which explains how synbio startups are revolutionizing the agriculture industry.

Decreasing crop yields and global food shortages are major crises for farmers, but advances in synthetic biotechnology could reverse those trends by developing new plant varietals, tackling climate change, boosting soil health, and cleaning up contaminated fields. However, it won’t be an easy ride: Public companies in the vertical have recorded lackluster revenue, stock performance has suffered, and there’s been a string of M&A and buyout activity.