Maize Gene KRN2 and Uses Thereof Patent Grant US12600976B2

The USPTO granted Patent US12600976B2 to China Agricultural University, establishing exclusive intellectual property rights for the KRN2 gene controlling kernel row number in maize plants along with closely linked molecular markers used in molecular breeding applications. The patent application was filed on April 4, 2024, and contains 6 claims covering the gene sequence, molecular markers, and breeding applications.

Agricultural firms, seed companies, and researchers developing corn or maize varieties should be aware that this patent may require licensing from China Agricultural University to utilize KRN2 gene technology or associated molecular markers in commercial breeding programs. Competitors developing similar kernel row number traits may need to design around this patent or seek licensing agreements to avoid potential infringement issues.