Technology Platform
In our research and development of new species and varieties we are
studying the factors that control characteristics such as:
To test the functions of particular genes and to create new and improved
varieties, DLF has developed techniques to introduce (splice) new genes
into grasses.
With the development of new genetic markers, the limit to what can be
achieved by breeding has taken a giant step 
forward. Genetic
markers can be defined as DNA profiles (“genetic fingerprints”) which
follow the same pattern of inheritance as a given characteristic. The
benefit of using genetic markers in breeding is seen especially during the
selection process, when a large number of progeny of one or more crosses
must be analysed and separated. By using marker systems. DNA profiles can
be made from very small quantities of material, and it is thus possible
to discover at a very early stage whether or not the progeny have a
given characteristic. With traditional breeding methods, a full growing
season is required before it is possible to see whether or not the
characteristics have been inherited. 
In the development of genetic markers, DLF is participating in the EU
Framework 5 project “Development of ryegrass allele-specific markers
(GRASP) for sustainable grassland improvement” (www.grasp-euv.dk).
Due to an increased demand for plants that can thrive
under increasingly extreme conditions, DLF has developed facilities
and methods for testing under a variety of conditions.
Technological developments are ever improving our ability
to analyze for known characteristics such as sugar and protein
contents and digestibility.
A number of advanced molecular biological methods have been developed and
they are used daily to identify new genes, make genetically modified
products, and to analyze various characteristics, relationships, quality and
more.
