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Targeted modification of plant genomes for precision crop breeding
Author(s) -
Hilscher Julia,
Bürstmayr Hermann,
Stoger Eva
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
biotechnology journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.144
H-Index - 84
eISSN - 1860-7314
pISSN - 1860-6768
DOI - 10.1002/biot.201600173
Subject(s) - genome editing , genome , microbiology and biotechnology , biology , computational biology , crop , gene , computer science , genetics , agronomy
The development of gene targeting and gene editing techniques based on programmable site‐directed nucleases (SDNs) has increased the precision of genome modification and made the outcomes more predictable and controllable. These approaches have achieved rapid advances in plant biotechnology, particularly the development of improved crop varieties. Here, we review the range of alterations which have already been implemented in plant genomes, and summarize the reported efficiencies of precise genome modification. Many crop varieties are being developed using SDN technologies and although their regulatory status in the USA is clear there is still a decision pending in the EU. DNA‐free genome editing strategies are briefly discussed because they also present a unique regulatory challenge. The potential applications of genome editing in plant breeding and crop improvement are highlighted by drawing examples from the recent literature.