From Lab to Field: CRISPRing Major Cultivated Solanaceae for Crop Improvement

TL;DR

This paper reviews how CRISPR technology is being used to improve important Solanaceae crops like tomatoes and potatoes, focusing on new editing techniques and field applications.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing technologies and their application in Solanaceae crops, including emerging delivery methods and regulatory considerations.

Findings

CRISPR/Cas9 is being used for targeted gene knockout and knock-in in Solanaceae crops.

Base editing and prime editing are enabling precise nucleotide substitutions in these crops.

Emerging delivery strategies like VIGE and grafting are helping generate transgene-free edited plants.

Abstract

The Solanaceae family includes some of the most economically and agronomically important crops, such as tomato, potato, pepper and eggplant. Recently, CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing has emerged as a powerful tool for functional genomics and crop improvement, enabling precise and efficient genetic modifications. This review provides an overview of CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing technologies and their applications in the major cultivated Solanaceae crops. The use of CRISPR/Cas9 systems for targeted gene knockout and knock-in approaches is described, together with advances in precision editing strategies such as base editing and prime editing, which allow precise nucleotide substitutions and small sequence changes. The expanding CRISPR toolbox is further explored through alternative Cas proteins, such as Cas12a and Cas13 with distinct targeting features and potential applications. Emerging delivery strategies, including ribonucleoprotein-mediated editing in protoplasts, virus-induced gene editing (VIGE), de novo induction of meristems and genome editing by grafting, represent promising approaches to generate transgene-free edited plants. In addition, the current status of field trials involving genome-edited Solanaceae crops in Europe is outlined, considering the regulatory landscape and legislative requirements for their release in the environment. Despite regulatory constraints, some genome-edited crops have reached the market, highlighting their potential to contribute to sustainable agriculture and crop improvement.

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