Today’s discoveries. Tomorrow’s solutions.
Many of the solutions to global threats such as climate change, pollution, disease and crop infestation can be found right beneath our feet. Microbes in the soil have proven potential to sequester carbon, improve crops, kill pests, reduce disease and even break down wastes such as plastic. At Pluton, we find the microbes to help solve these global threats and discover a sustainable tomorrow.
MICROBIAL FOCUS.
GLOBAL IMPACT.
Millions of microbes, each with their own distinct capabilities and characteristics, can live in just a teaspoon of soil. With over 1 trillion species of microbes on the planet, only about 1 in a million have been described. The Pluton team discovers new microbial solutions quickly, creating new bioproduct leads for carbon sequestration, agriculture, pharmaceutical discovery, biomaterials and bioremediation.
Learn more about the promise—and impact—of microbes we’ve already identified.
CLIMATE.
CHANGE.
CASE STUDY: GLOBAL WARMING
Carbon Sequestration
Pluton Biosciences is collaborating with global life sciences company Bayer AG to investigate the development of an all-natural, microbe-based carbon-capture soil amendment for growers. Using our exclusive Micromining Innovation Engine, we are identifying and developing microbes found in soil that can store carbon and nitrogen. Our proof-of-concept research predicts that the right grouping of microbes, applied in a spray at planting and harvest, can scrub nearly two tons of carbon from the air per acre of farmland per year, to help address climate change while replenishing nutrients in the soil.
CASE STUDY: CROP PROTECTION
Fall Armyworm
Our team of scientists and engineers has discovered several previously unknown bacteria that provide control against several agriculturally relevant plant pests, including the fall armyworm. A small molecule from this microbe has been identified and is being further developed to provide either biological or chemical products for growers. With these insects’ high rates of resistance to many current pesticides and only 30 microbes being used in biopesticides today, there is a need for next-generation solutions.
CRISIS.
