LeafWorks, a trailblazing female-led plant genetics and testing company specializing in botanical identification for cannabis and hemp, has unveiled an innovative non-GMO RNA spray aimed at controlling male sterility genes. This breakthrough technology addresses critical industry challenges, such as cross-pollination and hermaphroditism, while enabling the production of male-sterile plants for efficient hybrid seed development. To safeguard its innovation, LeafWorks has filed a provisional patent application with the law offices of Fish and Richardson LLP, solidifying its commercial use of male sterility genes.
“Our customers—breeders and cultivators of all scales—consistently ask, ‘Can you help me with herming?’” shared Dr. Eleanor Kuntz, CEO of LeafWorks. “As a third-party testing and service provider, we’re thrilled to offer this game-changing solution.”
Tackling Hermaphroditism in Cannabis Cultivation
Hermaphroditism, a prevalent issue in cannabis and hemp agriculture, poses significant risks to crop quality and profitability. Plants with both male and female flowers can cause unwanted pollination, which drastically reduces cannabinoid and terpene production, diminishes flower yield, and converts premium flower into lower-value seeded products.
To combat this, LeafWorks has developed a proprietary RNA-based spray capable of inducing pollen sterility in male flowers. Unlike traditional chemical approaches, this biodegradable RNA technology is naturally occurring and highly specific, targeting only the male sterility genes in cannabis plants.
A Revolution in Hybrid Seed Production
Male sterility plays a pivotal role in modern crop breeding, facilitating the development of hybrid seeds with enhanced yield, quality, and uniformity. LeafWorks’ technology empowers breeders to produce fully male-sterile seed lines, revolutionizing hybrid seed production at scale.
Although using sprays to influence plant sex is not new—chemical methods are often employed to create feminized seeds—no previous solutions have successfully deactivated male genes. LeafWorks’ innovation bridges this gap, offering breeders an advanced, sustainable tool to refine their breeding programs.
“Controlling cross-pollination potential is a significant victory for the industry,” said Dr. Kerin Law, Chief Scientific Officer at LeafWorks. “We are adapting this technology for various applications, enabling breeders at all scales to leverage it according to their unique needs.”
With this cutting-edge RNA spray, LeafWorks is setting a new standard for innovation in cannabis and hemp cultivation, driving progress in breeding efficiency and crop quality.
