Crispr Gene Editing for Secondary Metabolite Production: A Review

A variety of secondary metabolites or so-called phyto-metabolites with different biological properties and structures can be produced by medicinal plants and filamentous fungi. These secondary metabolites can be employed as toxins, dyes, medications, insecticides, etc. With the advent of the post-genomic era, an increasing number of enigmatic or unrecognized gene clusters responsible for the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites are being uncovered. The more thorough investigation of industrially significant secondary metabolites has, however, so far been constrained by the persistent absence of adaptable, reasonably easy-to-use, and highly effective genetic manipulation approaches. This conundrum might be resolved with the development of CRISPR/Cas9-based genome-editing technology, which has revolutionized genetic research and made it possible to use and discover new medicinal chemicals from plants and filamentous fungi. In this chapter, we offer a comprehensive overview of the CRISPR/Cas9 system and a concise recapitulation of the latest applications of genome editing achieved through CRISPR/Cas9. Including specific instances, we also provide a concise exploration of how the CRISPR/Cas9 system and CRISPRa have been employed to enhance secondary metabolite yields and discover new biologically active compounds. Moreover, we address challenges and constraints associated with utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing technology in investigations related to secondary metabolite production. Additionally, we delve into potential applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 methodology in the context of medicinal plants and filamentous fungi.