Belgian biotechnology company Devgen (Ghent) has taken steps towards focusing on its agricultural business. It has started splitting its agricultural and pharmaceutical operations and will centre on agricultural activities in the first half of 2008, chief executive officer Thierry Bogaert says. Devgen recently published work on field trials, conducted with Monsanto, on the potential of RNAi technology to protect maize from corn rootworms (Diabrotica spp). The company has produced "positive results" on Colorado potato beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) and other pests. Devgen recently acquired Monsantos seed assets in India.
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