GENE EDITING IN AGRICULTURE

Subject :  Science & tech

Concept :

• The system CRISPR-Cas9 acts on genetically modified molecules like a process of cut-and-paste.
• A special position is found on the DNA strand with genetic codes, which must be modified or “fixed”.
• Using the Cas9 protein acting like a pair of scissors, gene is removed from the strand.
• A DNA molecule has a natural propensity to fix itself, if it is damaged.
• In this automated repair process, scientists intervene to supply a necessary genetic code sequence that attaches to the damaged DNA strand.

What is CRISPR Cas9?

• The Clustered Regularly Interspersed Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR 9) (CRISPR-Cas9) method has streamlined gene editing, making it simpler and easier for most laboratories to access.
• CRISPR technology is basically a gene-editing technique which can be used to modify or change the organism’s genome.
• The technique can be used to target specific parts of the genetic code or to edit the DNA at certain locations.
• Researchers can change DNA sequences and gene activity
• Other potential applications include genetic defect repair, treatment and prevention of disease transmission and the improvement of crops.

Applications in Agriculture :

• Gene editing through CRISPR/Cas9 can create desired variations more precisely and without affecting other characters of a variety.
• This enables new varieties to be produced quicker and can enable breeders to significantly cut down on time, labour and cost.
• This technology is currently being harnessed for incorporating multiple traits that would help farmers improve both their production and incomes.
• These include varieties requiring low inputs like fertilisers, water, insecticides, fungicides or those that have better nutritional qualities.

In India :

• The DBT has also developed a draft regulatory framework and risk-assessment guidelines for genome-edited organisms.
• National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute, Mohali (Punjab), was among the first in India to use CRISPR/Cas9 to carry out a change in the phytoene desaturase (fruit ripening) gene of banana cv Rasthali.
• ICAR institutes are involved in application of CRISPR technology for enhancing stress tolerance and nutritional quality in a number of crops.