Emerging Trends in CRISPR and Genetic Engineering for Enhancing Insect Tolerance in Cotton

Abstract

This review paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the application of genetic engineering and Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR-Cas9) technology in enhancing insect resistance in cotton plants. With the global cotton industry facing significant threats from various pests, there is a pressing need for innovative and sustainable solutions. Genetic engineering has already made remarkable strides in this direction, with several transgenic cotton varieties demonstrating promising resistance against key pests. However, the advent of CRISPR-Cas9 has the potential to revolutionize this field, offering greater precision, efficiency, and versatility. In this review, we delve into the principles of genetic engineering and CRISPR-Cas9, outlining their mechanisms, methods, and potential in agriculture and crop improvement. We detail their roles in developing insect-resistant cotton, scrutinizing the successes, limitations, and impacts of existing genetically engineered cotton. We discuss the potential of CRISPR in creating more resilient cotton varieties, elucidating the techniques, strategies, and case studies of its application in cotton and other crops. We also delve into the regulatory and ethical considerations associated with these technologies, evaluating the current regulatory frameworks, ethical dilemmas, and public perceptions of genetically modified and CRISPR-edited crops. We then explore the potential impact of these technologies on cotton agriculture, sustainable farming, and integrated pest management, and outline future research directions and challenges. The review concludes with recommendations for future work, emphasizing the need for refining these technologies, fostering multidisciplinary research and stakeholder engagement, and addressing the associated challenges responsibly. We envisage that this exploration will contribute to the ongoing discourse and inspire future efforts in this significant field, paving the way towards a sustainable and resilient cotton industry.