Decreasing enteric methane emission from cattle by inhibition of RNase P, a tRNA biogenesis enzyme

The challenge in reducing enteric methane emissions from ruminant livestock lies not only in the biological complexity of the rumen ecosystem but also in the practical and economic barriers to deploying mitigation strategies at scale. While technologies such as 3-nitrooxypropanol additives, nitrate supplements, and selective breeding have shown potential to curb methane production by targeting methanogenic archaea, their effectiveness often varies depending on factors like animal genetics, feed type, and environmental conditions. Many of these solutions require precise dosing and continuous delivery, which is difficult and costly to implement in large, pasture-based farming systems. Moreover, risks such as toxicity, reduced feed efficiency, and microbial adaptation raise concerns about long-term viability. High cost of production, regulatory approval hurdles, and inconsistent results across farms make it challenging to commercialize a solution that is both profitable and broadly applicable. This creates a pressing need for a methane reduction approach that is scientifically robust, cost-effective, easy to administer, and adaptable to diverse livestock production settings.

Our solution introduces a first-in-class small-molecule inhibitor that targets methane-producing microbes in the rumen with high precision and minimal disruption to the broader gut ecosystem. This compound selectively binds to an essential RNA-processing enzyme found only in methanogenic archaea, using a slow-onset allosteric mechanism that suppresses methane production without affecting beneficial bacteria or the host animal. Designed for flexible oral delivery through feed, boluses or capsules, the molecule integrates easily into existing livestock management practices. Its selectivity, stability and compatibility with various feeding systems make it a highly scalable and cost-effective solution for reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions. By offering a targeted, science-driven approach with clear environmental and economic benefits, this technology has strong commercial potential in global livestock markets seeking sustainable productivity.