Genomics and crop improvement: focus on gene editing and its regulation

Abstract

Genomics and gene editing are revolutionising crop improvement by leveraging advanced biotechnological techniques to enhance yield, quality, and stress tolerance. Recent advances in sequencing technologies are enhancing our understanding of crop genomes, enabling the identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and structural variants. The concept of the pan-genome provides insights into genetic diversity and helps accelerate the development of high-yielding, resilient crop varieties through genomic selection. Genetic manipulation, which began with the transfer of genes between organisms, led to the emergence of genetically modified (GM) crops in the mid-1990s. Despite their significant contribution to global food production, public acceptance issues have limited their expansion. In contrast, gene editing (GEd) technologies, particularly CRISPR/Cas systems, have advanced rapidly since the early 2010s, allowing precise modifications at specific genomic loci. These tools promise to facilitate the introduction or modification of beneficial traits more efficiently than traditional breeding methods. Gene editing is now being applied to many crops, including rice, wheat, maize, soybean, potato, sugarcane, and tomato, improving traits such as shelf life, allergenicity, consumer benefits, and nutritional profiles. In sugarcane, a complex polyploid crop, CRISPR/Cas9 has shown promise in reducing lignin content, enhancing disease resistance, increasing biomass for biofuel production, and improving abiotic stress tolerance. Regulatory hurdles and public perception have impeded the wider adoption of GM crops, but GEd crops offer an opportunity to overcome these challenges. International regulatory regimes are evolving to differentiate between GM and GEd crops, with many countries approving the commercial growth and consumption of GEd crops. The future of crop improvement using GEd technologies lies in the harmonisation or alignment of global policies and regulations to support the trade of agricultural produce and ensure that growers and consumers can benefit from GEd technology.