Crop biotechnology company Monsanto Co. (MON.N: Quote, Profile , Research), said on Thursday its research and development of new products is accelerating at a record pace, with a range of genetically altered crop enhancements on the horizon. "Our R&D engine is really humming," said Monsanto Chief Technology Officer Robb Fraley in a conference call. "We will screen and test more genes in 2007 than in any other year in our history." St. Louis-based Monsanto is considered a global leader in genetically altering crops to resist pests and tolerate weed-killing treatments. The new offerings would include soybeans with healthier oils and higher oil yields; higher-yielding corn; beans, cotton and corn that grow well in drought conditions, and crops that make more efficient use of costly nitrogen applications.