Chapter 13 - Overview of the genome editing in rice and its implications

Abstract

To meet the rising requirements of the food supply of the growing population there is a need to improve rice (Oryza sativa) varieties further to increase the yield. Moreover, other traits, such as stress tolerance, need to be improved in rice in the face of climatic changes experienced in recent years. The pace of generating improved varieties of rice got a boost with the advancements in genome editing and speed breeding techniques. Effective genome editing in rice using techniques like CRISPR-Cas12a, CRISPR-directed evolution, and base editors has been achieved. Owing to its small genome size and close syntenic affiliations with other cereal crops, rice presents an exceptional model system for functional genomic studies. Novel genome-editing technologies for rice are continuously under development. This chapter is a humble attempt to provide an overview of the genome-editing tools for improvement in rice, current challenges, prospects, and safety concerns.