Gene Editing for Enhanced Plant Reproduction Systems: Shaping a Resilient Future

Human life depends on plants and crop production, with seeds serving as the primary source of nutrition for both humans and livestock. Currently, three plant species—rice, maize, and wheat—account for nearly 60% of the calories humans derive from plants. However, climate change and losses in biodiversity present extraordinary challenges to agricultural productivity, threatening global food sustainability. Seeds, the result of sexual reproduction in flowering plants, are not only vital for nutrition but also essential for the survival and propagation of Angiosperms. This emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms controlling plant reproduction. With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, improving the genetic resilience of staple crops through reproductive trait improvement has become an urgent priority. Advanced genome editing tools, such as CRISPR-based gene editing, are revolutionizing breeding strategies, enabling the development of new varieties with enhanced reproductive resilience and productivity.

This research topic aims to address the fundamental problem of improving plant reproductive systems to meet global challenges. The reproductive process leading to seed formation in flowering plants is complex, involving diverse signaling pathways and molecules. Recent advances in gene editing have opened unique opportunities to precisely modify genetic traits associated with reproductive resilience. By targeting key molecular pathways, it is now possible to develop new varieties that can tolerate adverse climatic changes, optimize resource use, and produce higher yields. To achieve these goals, this research topic will explore innovative approaches to decipher the genetic and molecular basis of plant reproduction and integrate advanced gene editing tools. These efforts will pave the way for sustainable crop production systems capable of addressing current and future agricultural challenges.

Authors are invited to submit their manuscripts related to the use of genome editing to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying plant reproduction to enhance crop resilience and productivity. In addition, the authors may submit manuscripts related to the use of gene editing for functional validation of genes, the development of innovative CRISPR-based plant gene editing strategies, and the optimization of reproductive traits for improved crop performance under environmental stress. The authors may submit the following categories of manuscripts:

• General Commentary
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review