Gene Editing Boosts Fiber Quality of Cotton

Researchers from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and the University of Nizwa in Pakistan used the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system to improve the fiber quality of cotton. The study, published in GM Crops & Food, focused on modifying the GhJAZ2 gene to enhance the fiber length and increase lint percentage to meet growing demand for high-quality cotton.

The GhJAZ2 gene in cotton produces a protein that suppresses fiber initiation through the jasmonic acid signaling pathway. In this study, researchers used CRISPR technology to target and modify this gene in cotton plants using an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method. Sanger sequencing analysis confirmed single-base pair indels at the targeted site across both A and D sub-genomes, with edited plants showing both inherited and newly introduced indels.

The results showed significant improvements in edited lines compared to the control, with fiber length increasing by up to 16.91% and enhanced lint percentage by up to 13.74%. The findings of the study highlight the potential of CRISPR technology in developing transgene-free cotton varieties with improved fiber traits.

For more information, read the study from GM Crops & Food.