CRISPR-oriented genome editing to improve nutrients in crops: advancements and opportunities

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Agricultural Extension and Communication, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.

2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), Ramanagara District, Karnataka - 562112, India.

3 Department of Science, Maharishi University of Information Technology, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

4 Centre of Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University, Rajpura- 140417, Punjab, India.

5 Chitkara Centre for Research and Development, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh-174103 India.

6 ISME, ATLAS SkillTech University, Mumbai, India

7 Department of Biotechnology, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Objective
This investigation targets to critically examine and summarise recent advancements in CRISPR-based genome editing technologies applied to raise the nutritional quality of major food crops. The centralize is on identifying particular gene targets, evaluating the outcomes of genetic modifications, and emphasizing future chances for sustainable agriculture and global food security.


Materials and methods
We analysed peer-reviewed research articles, case investigations, and institutional reports. The review concentrates on CRISPR/Cas9 and its progressive variants Cas12a, base editors, and prime editors that have been applied to modify genes related to nutrient biosynthesis, transport, and accumulation in crops. Key gene targets include psy1 and crtI for provitamin A production, o2 and lysine-rich proteins for increasing essential amino acids, and metal transporter genes like OsNAS2 and members of the ZIP family for improving iron and zinc bioavailability. The methodologies examined also cover numerous guide RNA design platforms and delivery techniques, containing Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, particle bombardment, and protoplast-based systems.
Results
Meaningful improvements in crop nutritional profiles were observed. For instance, CRISPR-edited rice varieties showed increased iron and zinc content, maize exhibited elevated lysine levels, and tomato demonstrated improved concentrations of vitamins A and C. Base editing approaches facilitated accurate nucleotide replacement without the introduction of foreign DNA, thereby reducing regulatory hurdles and enhancing public acceptance. Furthermore, the regulatory landscape in countries like the United States and Japan has evolved to permit field testing and commercialization of gene-edited crops under relaxed GMO guidelines, further accelerating study and expansion.
Conclusions
CRISPR-based genome editing represents a transformative tool in the expansion of nutrient-dense food crops. When integrated with synthetic biology and computational bioinformatics, it proposes a rapid and aimed approach to crop development, which is crucial in the context of climate change and population growth. However, for the technology to achieve global impact, different challenges must be addressed. These include establishing harmonized biosafety regulations, managing ethical concerns, and enhancing public awareness and trust. Collaborative international frameworks and inclusive policy-making will be essential to ensure that CRISPR-driven innovations participate effectively to global food and nutritional security.

Keywords

References

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Agricultural Biotechnology Journal
Volume 17, Issue 4
November 2025
Pages 247-264

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