CRISPR/Cas Technology Revolutionizes Crop Breeding

Abstract

Crop breeding is an important global strategy to meet sustainable food demand. CRISPR/Cas is a most promising gene-editing technology for rapid and precise generation of novel germplasm and promoting the development of a series of new breeding techniques, which will certainly lead to the transformation of agricultural innovation. In this review, we summarize recent advances of CRISPR/Cas technology in gene function analyses and the generation of new germplasms with increased yield, improved product quality, and enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. We highlight their applications and breakthroughs in agriculture, including crop de novo domestication, decoupling the gene pleiotropy tradeoff, crop hybrid seed conventional production, hybrid rice asexual reproduction, and double haploid breeding; the continuous development and application of these technologies will undoubtedly usher in a new era for crop breeding. Moreover, the challenges and development of CRISPR/Cas technology in crops are also discussed.

Genetic Mechanism of Cassava Disease Resistance: From Traditional Breeding to CRISPR/Cas Application

“…CRISPR/Cas technology is a revolutionary genome-editing tool that has transformed the field of genetics. The system originates from a natural defense mechanism found in bacteria and archaea, where it provides acquired resistance against viruses by targeting and cleaving their DNA (Tang et al, 2023). The CRISPR/Cas system is composed of two key components: the Cas9 enzyme, which acts as a molecular scissor, and a guide RNA (gRNA) that directs the Cas9 to a specific DNA sequence.…”

“…Additionally, off-target effects, where CRISPR/Cas may inadvertently edit non-target regions of the genome, can pose a risk to the safety and stability of the edited plants. Regulatory challenges also exist, as the status of CRISPR-edited plants in terms of GMO legislation varies across different countries, potentially affecting the adoption and commercialization of CRISPR/Cas-derived cassava varieties (Tang et al, 2023).…”

Genetic and Genomic Pathways to Improved Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Yields: A Review

“…This focused strategy not only accelerates the breeding process but also increases the chance of creating superior crop types that can meet the changing needs of agriculture and food production. The use of MAB has transformed plant breeding and ensured a sustainable future for world agriculture [23,24].…”