Precision genetic modifications: A new era in molecular biology and crop improvement

43Citations
Citations of this article
219Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

Recently, the use of programmable DNA-binding proteins such as ZFP/ZFNs, TALE/TALENs and CRISPR/Cas has produced unprecedented advances in gene targeting and genome editing in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. These advances allow researchers to specifically alter genes, reprogram epigenetic marks, generate site-specific deletions and potentially cure diseases. Unlike previous methods, these precision genetic modification techniques (PGMs) are specific, efficient, easy to use and economical. Here we discuss the capabilities and pitfalls of PGMs and highlight the recent, exciting applications of PGMs in molecular biology and crop genetic engineering. Further improvement of the efficiency and precision of PGM techniques will enable researchers to precisely alter gene expression and biological/chemical pathways, probe gene function, modify epigenetic marks and improve crops by increasing yield, quality and tolerance to limiting biotic and abiotic stress conditions. © 2014 European Union.

Author supplied keywords

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Fichtner, F., Urrea Castellanos, R., & Ülker, B. (2014, April 1). Precision genetic modifications: A new era in molecular biology and crop improvement. Planta. Springer Verlag. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00425-014-2029-y

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free