CRISPR-Cas Genome Editing for Insect Pest Stress Management in Crop Plants

Abstract

Global crop yield and food security are being threatened by phytophagous insects. Innovative methods are required to increase agricultural output while reducing reliance on hazardous synthetic insecticides. Using the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas technology to develop insect-resistant plants appears to be highly efficient at lowering production costs and increasing farm profitability. The genomes of both a model insect, Drosophila melanogaster, and major phytophagous insect genera, viz. Spodoptera, Helicoverpa, Nilaparvata, Locusta, Tribolium, Agrotis, etc., were successfully edited by the CRISPR-Cas toolkits. This new method, however, has the ability to alter an insect’s DNA in order to either induce a gene drive or overcome an insect’s tolerance to certain insecticides. The rapid progress in the methodologies of CRISPR technology and their diverse applications show a high promise in the development of insect-resistant plant varieties or other strategies for the sustainable management of insect pests to ensure food security. This paper reviewed and critically discussed the use of CRISPR-Cas genome-editing technology in long-term insect pest management. The emphasis of this review was on the prospective uses of the CRISPR-Cas system for insect stress management in crop production through the creation of genome-edited crop plants or insects. The potential and the difficulties of using CRISPR-Cas technology to reduce pest stress in crop plants were critically examined and discussed.

Genomic and Molecular Outlook of Host-pathogen Interaction and Resistance Strategies against White Rust in Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

“…These can eventually cover large portions of the leaf surface, impacting photosynthesis and leading to reduced vigour. Stag head is a systemic infection resulting from the growth of the fungus in the plant's inflorescence, leading to deformities and a significant reduction in yield [45]. The extent of yield loss in India due to white rust ranges from 23% to 54.5%, depending on the severity and timing of infection.…”

Revolutionizing nematode management to achieve global food security goals - An overview

“…Effective nematode management involves using a range of techniques, such as resistant crop varieties, cultural practices, biological control, and chemical control [ [16] , [17] , [18] ]. Gene editing and beneficial microbes are emerging technologies that hold promise in creating crops with resistance to nematode infestations [ 19 ]. Understanding nematode ecology is vital in developing precise and efficacious management strategies [ 20 , 21 ].…”

Unveiling the Genetic Symphony: Harnessing CRISPR-Cas Genome Editing for Effective Insect Pest Management

“…According to [26], the superiority of CRISPR-Cas technology over MNs, ZFNs, and TALENs can be attributed to its user-friendliness, adaptability, and capability for multiple gene insertion and editing in a single run. Modern crop improvement methods, including genetically modified crops and stress-resistant crops, are prioritized in order to ensure food supply for the world's rising population and to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (zero hunger) [27]. It is costly to employ synthetic chemical pesticides to manage insect pests during agricultural production and dangerous for both people and the environment [28].…”