Source: TH
Context: Scientists at the National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) have used CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing to enhance phosphate uptake in japonica rice, leading to a 20–40% increase in yield under controlled phosphate use.
About Japonica Rice:
- What is Japonica Rice?
- Japonica rice is a short-grain, high-starch variety of rice primarily grown in East Asia, often used in breeding experiments due to its ease of genetic modification and stable traits in controlled environments.
- Developed By:
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- Developed by NIPGR, New Delhi, using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing
- Research published in the Plant Biotechnology Journal
- Cultivar used: Nipponbare (a model japonica variety)
- How Was It Developed?
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- Target Gene Identified: OsPHO1;2, a phosphate transporter moving phosphorus from root to shoot
- Repressor Found: OsWRKY6, a negative regulator of this transporter
- Initial Strategy Failed: Knocking out the repressor impaired other plant functions
- Precise Editing: Only the 30 base-pair binding sites of the repressor was removed using CRISPR
- Outcome: Increased phosphate flow to the shoot, leading to better seed development
- Key Features of Gene-Edited Japonica Rice:
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- 20% higher yield with full fertilizer dose and 40% yield gain with only 10% of recommended phosphate.
- Increased phosphate absorption due to improved transporter activation.
- More panicles and seeds, while seed quality and dimensions remained normal.
- No foreign DNA in final generation; removed via Mendelian segregation.
- No off-target effects detected; validated using top genome-prediction software.
- Successfully simulates minimal-invasive promoter gene surgery.
- Significance for India:
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- Reduces Dependence on DAP Imports: India imports ~4.5 million tonnes annually.
- Tackles Phosphorus Deficiency: Crucial for Indian soils suffering nutrient loss.
- Eco-Friendly Agriculture: Optimizes phosphate use, reducing runoff and pollution.
- Future Prospects: Potential replication in indica rice, India’s major cultivar.
- Boost to Food Security: Improves productivity in nutrient-limited conditions.
