Can CRISPR gene-editing offer solutions to local crop challenges
Researchers have long hoped that the relative ease and low cost of CRISPR gene-editing systems would make it possible for scientists in low- and middle-income countries to produce crops with traits tailored to the needs of local farmers — rather than relying on seeds developed in foreign countries. Let us explore the use of this technology in the African subcontinent.
Sorghum's heavy weed infestation
Molecular biologist Steven Runo is leading a project to genetically modify, sorghum, a robust crop extensively utilized in Africa for food, construction materials, and feedstock, facing a significant challenge. Over 60% of African farmland is afflicted by various species of Striga, a parasitic plant that attaches to sorghum roots, depriving the crop of essential nutrients and water.
CRISPR-Cas9 to combat weed
Unrestrained infestations by this witchweed can lead to the complete loss of a crop. However, certain sorghum varieties naturally resist Striga due to mutations. Runo and his team have replicated these mutations using CRISPR-Cas9 technology and have received approval from Kenyan authorities to cultivate the gene-edited seeds within the established regulations. Field studies are scheduled for later this year, marking a notable stride.
Not an incentive for developed countries
Runo emphasized that obtaining permission for gene-edited seed cultivation is a notable achievement. This is crucial as Striga is not a concern in more affluent regions, resulting in a lack of motivation for large multinational corporations to invest in developing solutions for it, he said at Plant and Animal Genome Conference in San Diego.
Gene editing to save other crops
Ongoing gene-editing initiatives aim to enhance various African agricultural products. Researchers are modifying maize (corn) to confer resistance against maize lethal necrosis disease. Additionally, they are editing pearl millet to reduce its susceptibility to post-milling rancidity, and enhancing groundnuts to increase resistance to the fungus responsible for producing cancer-causing aflatoxins. Beyond crops, African livestock are also undergoing genetic modifications in pursuit of agricultural advancements.
