Applications of CRISPR-Cas for Genetic Improvement of Triticale
摘要
Modernization of agriculture by introducing novel crop varieties with improved productivity, agronomic qualities, and climate resilience is essential to circumvent the food security issue. Triticale, a fertile hybrid developed from wheat and rye, offers tremendous potential as an alternative to wheat in marginal unfavorable production environments. Though several hybrids have been developed over years, genetic modification using recombinant DNA technology in triticale is limited due to its polyploidy, poor genetic information, and restricted regeneration protocols. CRISPR-Cas system for genome editing has revolutionized agriculture by developing genome-edited climate-resilient crops. Application of this technology for genetic improvement of triticale will help in unlocking its full potential in developing climate-resilient, nutritionally rich, and adaptable to harsh environmental changes. This chapter provides a comprehensive summary of the current status of research on conventional genetic manipulation technology and use of CRISPR-Cas system along with the challenges associated in manipulating triticale genomes to introduce beneficial agronomic traits.