genomic-editing
Genomic editing refers to the precise modification of an organism's DNA using molecular tools such as CRISPR-Cas9, TALENs, or zinc-finger nucleases to insert, delete, or alter specific genetic sequences. In plant science, this technology enables researchers to engineer crops with targeted improvements in yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional profiles without the lengthy breeding cycles of traditional methods. The ability to make precise, predictable changes to plant genomes accelerates the development of varieties better suited to changing climates and global food security challenges.
PubMed · 2026-03-23
Scientists used a precision gene-editing tool (CRISPR/Cas9) to deliberately remove entire chromosomes from wheat by targeting repetitive DNA sequences found only on those chromosomes. This breakthrough could help breeders eliminate unwanted genetic material from wheat more efficiently than traditional methods.
CRISPR/Cas9 targeted at satellite DNA (highly repetitive chromosome-specific sequences) successfully induced chromosome truncation and complete elimination in wheat
The approach exploits repetitive satellite DNA as a unique genomic address to direct editing tools to specific chromosomes, enabling large-scale chromosomal engineering
Chromosome elimination was achieved in wheat, a complex polyploid crop, demonstrating feasibility in genomes with multiple similar chromosome sets
