A recent study published in the journal Nature Plants highlights a new approach to plant genome editing, utilizing a compact CRISPR-like enzyme to target specific DNA sequences in the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana. Scientists from the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCLA have made breakthrough advances in plant breeding techniques. This breakthrough, championed by Steven Jacobsen and Jennifer Doudna, has the potential to significantly improve food security across the globe.
Arabidopsis thaliana is a model mustard plant that has become an important tool in plant biology. Its small, sequenced genome structure makes it ideal for genetic manipulation and large-scale genetic studies. In this study, researchers used a tobacco rattle virus to deliver the compact enzyme ISYmu1. This potent enzyme efficiently targeted and knocked out specific genes in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. The editing worked so well that it produced an unambiguous visual indicator, with all the affected areas turning completely white, up to and including the seedlings themselves.
What makes this research stand out is its novel approach, one that uncovers new paths worth exploring. Its implications are massive and have the potential to revolutionize agricultural practices. The research team validated that the corrections were made in the germline, or reproductive cells. This additional step made sure that subsequent generations of plants would inherit the desired genetic changes.
Collaborative Efforts
The study succeeded through the unique interaction of several specialized laboratories, integrating knowledge from unrelated specialties to reach their overall goals. Steven Jacobsen, left, and Jennifer Doudna, a co-inventor of the CRISPR-Cas9 technology who worked on this project. It was their combined knowledge of plant discovery and their cutting edge precision CRISPR engineering approaches that made development of these precision engineered introductions possible.
“This study combined the strengths of my lab with our friends in the Jacobsen lab at UCLA to develop a new approach to precision CRISPR engineering in crops to help make that promise a reality.” – Jennifer Doudna
The team-up also involved the experience of Jill Banfield, a specialist in searching through large sequences for new CRISPR systems. Banfield’s contributions were absolutely invaluable in helping us hone the right techniques to use in this cutting-edge research, which made successful outcomes possible.
Advances in Genetic Engineering
The tobacco rattle virus—a virus that can infect more than 400 different plant species, including Arabidopsis thaliana. Through its use, we believe that it is a unique delivery mechanism for the ISYmu1 enzyme. This new technique allows for targeted, genome-wide gene editing just in one generation. This leads to on-target, plants to be genetically modified at only the desired location.
Scientists recognized that this development could dramatically advance plant breeding methods. It enables the development of completely conventional plants with just the intended changes. The knowledge, capacity and flexibility to adapt genetic innovations is releasing new potential to better meet varying agricultural needs in distinct ecosystems.
The robust gene editing that was accomplished in this study is a powerful example of the transformative potential of CRISPR technology. With some additional research and development, these and other approaches like them could be adapted for much wider agricultural use.
Implications for Global Food Security
The potential implications of this research go beyond academic interest. They are especially relevant to addressing pressing challenges like global food security. As populations grow and climate change challenges agricultural production, innovative genetic engineering techniques like those demonstrated in this study become increasingly important.
“CRISPR has the potential to make a huge impact in agriculture—one that can be customized to local needs around the world.” – Jennifer Doudna
Utilizing Arabidopsis thaliana as a model organism, researchers are working to refine these technologies. They accomplish this in a relatively controlled environment before using their findings to inform work with more complex crops. This makes sure the innovations are useful and effective when they’re deployed to tackle real-world ag challenges.