Gene editing and agrifood systems

Abstract

vi NARS scientists we can further advance breeding of crops critical to feeding much of the world's population like cassava, sorghum, millet and banana.Around the world, governments have taken a practical approach towards regulation: in cases where changes made via genome editing are synonymous with changes that could have been made using conventional breeding, products undergo similar safety assessments. For edits that lead to insertions of DNA, governments can rely on over three decades' worth of experience in transgenics. This clear regulatory approach has spurred investment by academic and public-sector developers who now have a path to product approvals.Any review of genome editing technology should be accompanied by a discussion on ethics. Valid concerns have been raised over the desire for an unaltered natural environment, maintenance of ancient germplasm, as well as animal rights, and cultures around the world will have questions about how the technology might comply or conflict with religious beliefs. Platforms for societal engagement are much needed to facilitate discussions on ethics, and to educate the public on the technology. Individuals should have the ability to choose products that meet their needs and adhere to their belief systems. A consumer of the future may choose an edited variety because they prioritize sustainability, animal welfare, have allergies, or prefer the taste. A farmer of the future may choose to grow an edited crop because it preserves a favoured variety while making it more resilient to a changing climate, or because it increases yield, or captures carbon from the atmosphere. A successful path to the future is one that includes informed choice.It is my hope that this report will serve as a guiding document for those seeking to responsibly and equitably deploy genome editing technologies. All of human health depends on agriculture. It has been just over 10 years since CRISPR genome editing emerged as a tool; now it is time to wield it wisely.

Pyramiding of transgenic immune receptors from primary and tertiary wheat gene pools improves powdery mildew resistance in the field

“…Inserting DNA fragments into plant genomes by biolistic- or Agrobacterium -mediated transformation has so far not been well accepted politically, especially not in Europe ( Wulff and Dhugga, 2018 ). In the future, the more politically accepted genome editing technology could be used ( Dima et al , 2022 ; FAO, 2022 ). So far insertion of large DNA fragments by genome editing has been challenging in plants, but recently an optimized approach called PrimeRoot was introduced ( Sun et al , 2023 ; Wang and Doudna, 2023 ).…”

Dynamics of Genome Edited Products in the World Market for Future Food Security : A Review

“…It is estimated that the global population will increase by 25% and exceed 10 billion in the next three decades (Hickey et al, 2019). As a result, there is a growing necessity to enhance food production by up to 53% (FAO, 2018;2022). To tackle this challenge, it is crucial to develop novel crop varieties that can withstand both biotic and abiotic stresses, utilizing innovative methods (Abdul Fiyaz et al, 2020).…”

“…To tackle this challenge, it is crucial to develop novel crop varieties that can withstand both biotic and abiotic stresses, utilizing innovative methods (Abdul Fiyaz et al, 2020). While the Green Revolution has significantly boosted food grain production and alleviated global hunger and poverty, it has also introduced new obstacles such as the excessive use of agrochemicals and monocropping (World Resources Institute, 2019;FAO, 2022). In order to meet the rising demand for food in a sustainable manner, it is necessary to enhance current productivity and quality (Ray et al, 2012;Hickey et al, 2019).…”

“…Over the last decade, genome editing methods have been utilized to enhance different characteristics in a wide array of crops. Recent advancements in genome editing technologies have led to a flourishing market, with a total value of USD 5.1 billion in 2021 and it is projected to reach USD 11.7 billion by 2026 (FAO, 2022). In comparison to genetically modified crops (GMOs), gene editing techniques offer certain advantages due to less stringent regulations and societal concerns (He and Krainer, 2021).…”

“…Their contributions have a significant impact on the economy across diverse sectors. While public sector research programs primarily concentrate on academia, private sector initiatives are directly influenced by market demands and profit-oriented objectives (FAO, 2022). The advancements in genome editing research and its implications have fostered collaborations between academic institutions and industry players for research and development endeavours.…”