Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in agricultural biotechnology by using CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the potato genome, resulting in plants with increased resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses.
This innovation could lead to a new era of sustainable farming, where crops are naturally fortified against diseases and harsh environmental conditions, ensuring a stable food supply in the face of climate change and other global challenges, according to a press release.
The global food system faces mounting challenges as climate change intensifies the spread of pests and diseases among crops. Potatoes, the world’s third most important food crop, are particularly vulnerable. The pursuit of sustainable agricultural practices requires developing crops that can endure these challenges, highlighting the urgent need for research to bolster the resilience of staple foods.
Researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences have achieved a significant breakthrough, detailed in the May 6, 2024, issue of Horticulture Research (DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhae130). This peer-reviewed study introduces a novel approach to potato genome editing that could revolutionize crop resistance.
Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, researchers have precisely edited the StDMR6-1 gene in potatoes, enhancing their ability to resist various diseases and environmental stressors. These modified potatoes exhibit significantly increased resistance to late blight and other diseases, while maintaining both yield and tuber quality—crucial factors for agricultural productivity. Moreover, the edited plants demonstrate improved tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity, showcasing a broad resilience essential for sustainable agriculture.
“Our research on the Stdmr6-1 mutants is poised to transform potato cultivation, offering a line of defense against the relentless challenges of climate change and the evolving threats of pathogens, securing our food supply for generations to come,” Erik Andreasson, the corresponding author of the study, underscores its significance, noted.
This research has profound implications, potentially enabling the agricultural sector to greatly reduce its reliance on fungicides and adopt more sustainable farming practices. The findings offer a blueprint not just for potatoes, but for enhancing the resilience of a wide range of crops, paving the way for a stronger agricultural system capable of enduring future challenges.
