CRISPR/Cas9-Based Genome Engineering in Plants for Enhancing Disease Resistance

Plant biotechnology, which includes a variety of scientific methods and techniques, is vital in identifying and modifying plant genes to create desired traits in plants or to achieve specific outcomes. The CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats)- mediated genetic modification technique has arisen as a modern approach to increase plant resistance to various bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Techniques to reduce off-target effects involve designing precise guide RNAs, utilizing high-accuracy Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) enzymes, and using the ribonucleoprotein transport approach. The use of CRISPR/Cas9 (CRISPR) technology in crop protection shows significant potential as a sustainable alternative to pesticides. Combining multiple resistance genes and adopting good farming practices are essential strategies for increasing durability. Disease resistance, in particular, stands out as a promising area for applying this technology in agriculture. CRISPR aids in the gene stacking process and provides opportunities for efficiently creating new resistances. Additionally, addressing technical challenges related to targeted mutagenesis and achieving true genetic modification in crops are critical. Improving the efficiency of homology-directed repair and developing multiplexing protocols are vital for broadening the range of CRISPR applications in plant breeding. This technique possesses the capability to transform crop protection, offering a way to produce superior, disease-resistant crops and reduce the environmental impact of pesticide use. This chapter examines diverse uses of the CRISPR technique in managing plant diseases.