In the past delivering gene-editing machinery to plant cells was thought to only be successful through CRISPR/Cas9. However, limitations exist with this method as it is too large, so plant biologist are left with no choice but to use a two-step method which is time consuming and restrictive to certain plant species. Cas9’s are made up of around 1,300 amino acids, scientists began experimenting with smaller alternatives. A recent study from UC Davis highlights the promising findings of TnpB, an enzyme associated with transposons also known as “jumping genes” functions like CRISPR/Cas9, but is only around 400 amino acids in length, which is a much more ideal size for gene editing in plants.
The discovery and small stature of TnpB is a massive step toward global food security. With the use of this smaller, more manageable enzyme researchers can target genes in specific crops. Additionally, they can do so with high percentages of accuracy that can improve traits such as drought resistance, nutritional value, and shelf life. For example, the team successfully used this tiny editor to modify tobacco plants, demonstrating a 90% efficiency rate.
These findings support the need for new and relevant research in the engineering of genome editing technology in plants, opposed to utilizing functional, but not ideal methods that are used in biomedical science.
Tags: #Genetics #Agriculture #CRISPR #TnpB #PlantScience #UCDavis #Biotech
Sources:
https://biology.ucdavis.edu/news/pint-sized-gene-editor-could-expand-precision-breeding-plants#:~:text=However%2C%20TnpB%20is%20only%20around,manageable%20size%20for%20viral%20delivery
https://www.nature.com/nplants/
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