CRISPR-based genome editing in wheat: a comprehensive review and future prospects

CRISPR technology has vividly increased its applications in last five years for genome editing in a wide range of organisms from bacteria to plants. It is mostly applied in the field of mammalian research. This emerging versatile tool can be utilized in crop improvement by targeting various traits to increase economic value and adaptability of the crop species under changing climate. In plants, Arabidopsis and rice are the most studied plant species in genome editing through CRISPR technology. Wheat is lagging behind in the utilization of CRISPR based genome modifications. The hexaploid, large genome size and the recalcitrant nature in terms of tissue culture are the major obstacles for CRISPR utilization in wheat. Recently, the IWGSC released the high quality of reference genome for wheat which will greatly accelerate the application of CRISPR-based genome engineering in wheat and helps to resolve the global issue of food security in coming decades. The exogenous DNA-free improved mutants with CRISPR technology having desired traits will increase the productivity under biotic and abiotic stress conditions. To address complex traits involving multigene, recently developed multiplex genome editing toolkits can be used. This is a first review of its kind in which the practical utilization and updates on CRISPR validation in wheat along with its future prospects for use of this technology in wheat improvement are comprehensively discussed. Thus, the compiled information will immensely benefit the researchers for utilization of CRISPR system in wheat improvement across the globe.