The latest advancement in plant biotechnology is a novel CRISPR technology developed by scientists at Bose Institute. This innovative system utilizes a modified CRISPR-based mechanism known as dCas9, designed to enhance how plants respond to environmental stresses like heat and disease.
Unlike traditional CRISPR methods that cut DNA, the dCas9 system operates as a regulatory switch. This system typically remains inactive ("off") and does not activate genes. Researchers have integrated a special component derived from a tomato protein, termed NACMTF3, specifically its transmembrane (TM) domain. This TM domain serves as a tether, keeping the dCas9 switch outside the plant's nucleus, which is crucial for gene regulation.
Under stress conditions, such as extreme heat, the TM domain releases the dCas9 switch, permitting it to enter the nucleus and activate genes that bolster the plant's defense mechanisms.
This cutting-edge technology primarily aids solanaceous plants—including tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and chilies—in overcoming various stressors. It enables these plants to combat pathogens like bacteria and manage adverse climate conditions, including elevated temperatures.
Initial trials of this advanced system have shown promising results in tomatoes, potatoes, and tobacco. These trials demonstrate the technology's capability to enhance plant resilience effectively.
Heat often compromises a plant's immune response, making it more vulnerable to diseases such as Pseudomonas syringae. The innovative CRISPR tool allows scientists to precisely activate two critical defense genes (CBP60g and SARD1) in tomatoes, but only when necessary. This on-demand gene activation assists plants in responding robustly to bacterial threats, even amidst heat stress.
Additionally, the system facilitates the activation of two "heat helper" genes (NAC2 and HSFA6b) in tomato plants during high temperature episodes. This strategic activation helps maintain the plants' greenness, supports water retention, and promotes overall health, even under stress.
The implications of this technology for agriculture are significant:
This innovative technology was developed by a research team at the Bose Institute, which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The project was led by Prof. Pallob Kundu. The findings of this research have been published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
Q1. What is CRISPR technology in plants?
Answer: CRISPR technology in plants involves a modified system that helps them respond to environmental stresses like heat and disease by activating specific genes during these conditions.
Q2. How does the dCas9 system function?
Answer: The dCas9 system acts as a molecular switch that remains inactive until environmental stress triggers its release, allowing it to activate genes within the plant's nucleus.
Q3. Which plants benefit from this new CRISPR technology?
Answer: Solanaceous plants, including tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants, are the primary beneficiaries of this cutting-edge CRISPR technology.
Q4. What are the advantages of this technology for agriculture?
Answer: This technology enhances plant resilience to climate change, conserves energy by activating defenses only when needed, and has the potential to improve a wide range of food crops.
Q5. Who led the development of this CRISPR technology?
Answer: The technology was developed by researchers at Bose Institute, led by Prof. Pallob Kundu, and the findings were published in a scientific journal.
Question 1: What does the modified CRISPR technology primarily help plants with?
A) Enhancing growth
B) Responding to heat and disease
C) Increasing yield
D) Improving taste
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which gene activation does the dCas9 system promote during stress?
A) Growth genes
B) Defense genes
C) Color genes
D) Nutritional genes
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the role of the TM domain in the dCas9 system?
A) Activates growth
B) Tethers the switch
C) Cuts DNA
D) Enhances flavor
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which plants were successfully tested with the new CRISPR technology?
A) Rice and wheat
B) Tomatoes, potatoes, and tobacco
C) Corn and barley
D) Apples and oranges
Correct Answer: B
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