Plant genome editing is at the forefront of agricultural biotechnology, introducing transformative possibilities for crop improvement and sustainable farming practices. The emergence of advanced gene-editing systems - most notably CRISPR-Cas9 - has dramatically accelerated progress in modifying plant genomes with high precision. This has enabled significant advancements in developing crops with improved yields, enhanced resistance to pests and diseases, and greater tolerance to environmental stressors. However, questions linger regarding the long-term ecological impacts, biosafety, and public acceptance of these technologies, coupled with ongoing debates around the regulation and societal implications of genetically modified plants. While recent studies underscore the promise of genome editing in addressing pressing global food security challenges, gaps remain in our understanding of unintended consequences on ecosystems, gene flow, and biodiversity.

This Research Topic aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations and critical issues surrounding genome editing in plants. The primary objective is to synthesize current advancements, delineate the main technical and ethical challenges, and chart strategic pathways for future research and responsible implementation. Key aims include evaluating methods to increase editing precision and efficiency, assessing the integration of genome editing into modern agricultural systems, and analyzing the evolving landscape of regulatory and societal oversight. Further, it seeks to foster multidisciplinary exchange on both opportunities and constraints in leveraging genome editing for sustainable agriculture.

To gather further insights into genome editing in plants, we encourage submissions that examine recent progress, unresolved questions, and practical considerations within these boundaries. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Cutting-edge advancements in CRISPR and alternative genome editing technologies for plants
- Case studies highlighting successful implementations across diverse plant species
- Ethical, legal, and societal dimensions of adopting genome editing in agriculture
- Navigating and harmonizing regulatory frameworks for genome-edited crops
- Assessing the long-term ecological and environmental outcomes of genome-edited plants
- Synthesizing genome editing with conventional and molecular breeding techniques
- Visionary perspectives and potential paradigm shifts enabled by future genome editing innovations

If relevant, this Research Topic also welcomes original research articles, reviews, opinions, perspectives, and case reports.

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Insights in Genome Editing in Plants 2024/2025