PubMed · 2026-05-29
Scientists have compiled a comprehensive catalog of all known wheat genes that have been identified and characterized, then mapped out how gene-editing tools like CRISPR can use this catalog to breed wheat varieties that better withstand disease, drought, and other stresses.
A comprehensive atlas of cloned and characterized wheat genes was compiled, providing the most complete gene target reference available for wheat improvement to date.
CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing was identified as the most promising technology to exploit this atlas, enabling precise modification of stress-tolerance and quality traits.
The authors propose concrete strategies to integrate gene editing into existing breeding timelines, potentially compressing the years normally required to develop and release improved wheat varieties.
