This Research Topic explores the enhancement of precision in CRISPR/Cas technologies within plant biotechnology, focusing on reducing off-target effects to ensure safe and effective genome editing. Specifically, the topic emphasizes the development of new Cas variants (e.g., Cas12 and Cas13) in addition to Cas9 and its derivatives, to minimize unintended genetic alterations through advances in computational prediction and Cas protein engineering.

Furthermore, the development of novel methodologies for high-throughput detection and sequencing of CRISPR-induced mutations across multiple plant species is highly desirable. Improvements in base editing and prime editing technologies with enhanced precision are also key focal points of this topic. The overarching goal is to optimize these genome editing tools for reliable and sustainable agricultural applications.

We welcome contributions on themes such as high-throughput detection of CRISPR mutations, off-target analysis, evolution of CRISPR/Cas technologies, innovations in base and prime editing, RNA design optimization, integration of computational prediction tools, and the ethical and regulatory considerations of using CRISPR-edited crops.

To minimize off-target effects, shifting away from Agrobacterium-mediated delivery toward alternative methods is recommended. These alternatives include PEG-mediated delivery of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes, nanoparticle-mediated delivery, and virus-mediated systems.

The agricultural challenges targeted by new genomic techniques include climate change, abiotic and biotic stresses, global food security, sustainable agriculture, and yield improvement. Traits relevant to addressing these challenges have already been identified in diverse plant-environment systems. These traits can be emulated in elite crop varieties with high precision by introducing targeted mutations using engineered Cas proteins, as well as improved base and prime editing systems.

One key strategy for reducing off-target effects—often caused by integration of Cas-expressing constructs into the plant genome—is careful selection of the delivery method.

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CRISPR/CAS Innovations: Advancing Precision And Specificity In Plant Genetic Engineering