Science & Research

Strain breeding

Our breeding team is a recognized world leader in their field, utilizing genetic analysis, DNA fingerprinting, marker assisted selection, predictive modeling and whole genome sequencing to support new strain development.

With many of the techniques developed by Sylvan scientists themselves, Sylvan holds a significant number of key patents that ensure program longevity.

Our resource programs maintain the largest collection of Agaricus mushroom germplasm in any laboratory worldwide, allowing our team to evaluate and integrate new strains into breeding lines. New varieties acquiring non-bruising and disease resistance traits for example are developed as a result of Sylvan’s continuing breeding program.

Genomics

Sylvan has been engaged in the development of new mushroom strains for over 50 years, using the traditional approach of making new combinations and then selecting for the best strains.

During this time, the science of Genomics, the study of DNA and chromosomes, has evolved and advanced significantly.  Today, all modern crop breeding systems hinge on combining the natural variation found in wild varieties with the well-defined attributes of familiar cultivated stocks. Sylvan has embraced the new frontier in genomics taking advantage of the opportunities found in many unique combinations.  We have developed sophisticated DNA models and proprietary data systems which combine our elite breeding stocks with select sources of wild germplasm.  Our scientists use genomics data to streamline and improve our breeding program by allowing us to identify unique combinations of traits that are of commercial value.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Sylvan researchers collaborate with scientists from around the world from universities renowned for Mycology, Genomics and Genetics. The following list includes some of Sylvan key research partners:

• The Pennsylvania State University – USA
• Agricultural University of Athens – Greece
• Teagasc, The Agriculture and Food Development Authority – Ireland
• National University of Ireland, Maynooth – Ireland
• Jilin University – China
• Edible Mushroom Research Institute, Fuzhou – China