NACET Clients in the News...
Arizona Innovation Connection: Moving Innovation and Technology Forward
June 19, 2008 • Issue 10 — A new chemical fertility control technology that may substantially reduce the devastating impact rodents have on rice production in developing countries is being featured at the BIO 2008 International Convention in San Diego, CA, this week through June 20th. SenesTech, Inc., a Flagstaff-based corporation, is developing a technology that will target the fertility of rice field rats in Southeast Asia. If successful, the chemical spaying procedure could prevent uncontrolled populations of rodents that often eat and contaminate rice harvests. It is estimated that rodents are capable of destroying up to one-third of the rice crop each year.
The development of the technology is being completed at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, while further characterization of animal models is being conducted at Arizona State University in Tempe. The technology is built on patents filed by the University of Arizona in Tucson. This statewide effort reflects the mission of the Arizona Bioscience Roadmap, which provides Arizona scientists with a conduit for collaborative research and technology transfer.
“It is impressive to witness the level of collaboration and innovation that occur within our universities and communities,” said Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano. “These advances — which potentially have a significant impact on the planet — are possible when we create the infrastructure for and foster science-based projects and discoveries.”
For additional information on ContraPest™ contact Everett Hale at ehale@senestech.com or visit www.senestech.com. ContraPest™ is projected to be available for commercial use in the spring of 2010.
— Sandra Watson, Arizona Department of Commerce Senior Director, Workforce and Business Development
