Maize Genome Editing with CRISPR-Cas Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional plant breeding methods face limitations in efficiently and reliably introducing targeted genetic modifications without introducing unwanted genetic or epigenetic variations, particularly in enhancing agronomically relevant traits such as abiotic stress tolerance, architecture, biotic stress resistance, photosynthesis, and resource partitioning in maize plants.
Innovation Solution
The development of methods to create modified Zea sp. cells and plants with targeted modifications in specific genes associated with these traits, using techniques such as CRISPR-Cas systems to introduce predetermined sequences at double-strand breaks in the genome, ensuring precise changes without unwanted genetic or epigenetic alterations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional plant breeding methods are used, then genetic diversity can be introduced, but unwanted genetic or epigenetic variations are also introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the genome editing process into targeted modifications at specific loci using guide RNAs, allowing precise alteration of individual genes without affecting other parts of the genome. This enables stacking of desired alleles while avoiding unwanted variations in non-target regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making modifications only at specific genomic loci where guide RNAs direct the editing machinery. This ensures that changes are confined to targeted genes associated with specific traits, leaving the rest of the genome unchanged and avoiding unwanted epigenetic variations.
2Productivity
If traditional plant breeding is used, then trait enhancement is achieved, but the process is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by designing and introducing multiple guide RNAs simultaneously to target multiple genes for modification in a single breeding cycle. This allows stacking of desired alleles without requiring sequential breeding steps, dramatically reducing the time and generations needed compared to traditional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses guide RNAs as intermediaries to direct the editing machinery to specific genomic loci. These guide RNAs enable precise targeting of multiple genes simultaneously, serving as mediators that accelerate the breeding process by eliminating the need for multiple sequential selection steps.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple genes are modified through traditional breeding, then trait stacking is achieved, but genetic variation increases uncontrollably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a single guide RNA-based system to target and modify multiple different genes simultaneously. This multi-functional approach allows stacking of desired alleles across various traits while maintaining control over the modification process, preventing uncontrolled genetic variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of genetic modification precision by using guide RNAs to direct edits to specific genomic loci. This enables the stacking of multiple desired alleles while maintaining stable genetic composition, as the guide RNAs ensure modifications occur only at intended targets rather than causing random variations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
These methods enable the stacking of desired alleles with improved expression in genes related to abiotic stress, architecture, biotic stress, photosynthesis, and resource partitioning, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of plant breeding by allowing for precise genetic modifications that improve agronomic traits without introducing unwanted variations.
Implementation Method 1
using techniques such as CRISPR-Cas systems to introduce predetermined sequences at double-strand breaks in the genome
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to novel maize plants, seeds and compositions, as well as improvements to maize plant breeding and methods for creating modifications in maize plant genomes.