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What Makes SmartStax® Pro with RNAi Technology Different From Other Traits?

July 30, 2022

Corn rootworm remains a top threat for corn farmers in large part due to their remarkable ability to adapt. Bt-based traits and crop rotation remain important management tools, but the need to stay one step ahead of the billion-dollar bug* — named for the insect’s annual cost to farmers — is more apparent than ever.


A MODE OF ACTION UNLIKE ANYTHING THAT’S COME BEFORE

Farmers seeking to be proactive in their protection against corn rootworm will have a new tool in their toolbox: SmartStax® PRO with RNAi Technology. This new trait technology is built on the two proven Bt proteins (Cry34Ab1/Cry35Ab1 and Cry3Bb1) found in SmartStax® Technology along with an entirely new RNAi-based technology for a total of three modes of action against corn rootworm.

HOW DOES RNAi TECHNOLOGY WORK?

RNAi technology is unlike anything that’s come before. While a Bt trait works in the corn rootworm’s midgut, this RNAi-based trait actually interferes with a corn rootworm’s ability to create a specific protein critical to its own survival. After ingestion, RNAi technology stops the production of this essential protein, which results in death of the corn rootworm.


WHY IS NEW TECHNOLOGY SO IMPORTANT?

The strength of SmartStax PRO Technology comes from the uniqueness of its new mode of action. Because RNAi technology works differently than a soil-applied insecticide or Bt protein-based traits, it can enhance your corn’s ability to defend itself against corn rootworm over a range of pressures. Together with its two Bt traits, the three modes of action in SmartStax PRO Technology will form a powerful combination against one of corn’s top threats.


HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?

Take a deeper dive into the science behind SmartStax PRO Technology and see if it’s the right fit for your operation.

See the Science

*USDA AgResearch Magazine – May, 2013

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. SmartStax® PRO Technology is not currently available for commercial sale or commercial planting. Commercialization is dependent on multiple factors, including successful conclusion of the regulatory process. The information presented herein is provided for educational purposes only and is not and shall not be construed as an offer to sell. Bayer, the Bayer Cross and SmartStax® are registered trademarks of Bayer Group ©2021 Bayer Group. All rights reserved.

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