Crispr-cas9 genome editing platform for drought-tolerant millets
A research platform applying CRISPR-Cas9 base editing and omics approaches to develop multi-stress resilient Proso and Finger Millet varieties. Targets drought-tolerance genes homologous to validated rice candidates to improve yield, support sustainable food systems, and address orphan-crop food security in Africa.
Overview
This solution addresses a critical food security challenge by applying CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and omics technologies to Proso and Finger Millet, two staple crops widely consumed across Africa but classified as orphan crops due to limited international trade and research investment. These millets are nutritious and gluten-free, yet suffer from low yields caused by poor resilience to drought and high temperatures. By targeting specific drought-tolerance genes and introducing precise allelic variants through base editing, this approach aims to strengthen multi-stress resilience, increase yield, and contribute to a more sustainable global food system.
Technical specifications
Core approach:
- Omics-driven gene discovery, including transcriptome sequencing of Proso and Finger Millet to identify differentially expressed genes linked to drought tolerance
- Functional analysis of candidate genes to confirm their role in stress response
- Identification of drought-tolerance-specific SNPs suitable for base editing
- CRISPR-Cas9 base editing using guide RNAs to direct the Cas protein to target sites and perform precise mutagenesis of drought-tolerance genes
- Candidate gene targets include homologs of validated rice drought-tolerance genes such as OsDIS1, OsiSAP7, OMTN2, OMTN3, OMTN4, and OMTN6
- gRNA sequencing to identify desirable allelic variants produced in edited populations
Key benefits:
- Improved drought and heat resilience in orphan millet crops
- Higher yields for smallholder farmers in drought-prone regions, particularly across Africa
- Contribution to sustainable, climate-resilient food systems
- Application of proven base-editing methodology to crops with limited prior genomic characterization
Technology readiness level
The platform is at an early research stage. Genome sequencing and transcriptome resources for Proso and Finger Millet are limited, representing both a challenge and an opportunity. The proposed validation pathway involves generating new transcriptome data, performing functional gene analysis, identifying drought-responsive SNPs, and applying CRISPR-Cas9 base editing to confirm improved stress tolerance. The approach builds on validated CRISPR-Cas9 methods demonstrated in other crops, but millet-specific validation and trait confirmation remain to be completed. The research is positioned for collaborative development, pilot trials, and sponsored research partnerships to advance toward field-ready cultivars.
About R.V. College of Engineering
RV College of Engineering (RVCE) is an autonomous, self‑financing engineering institution in Bengaluru, affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University and accredited NAAC A+. It connects to industry through an active Industry Institute Interaction Cell, 150+ MoUs, and co‑located, industry‑sponsored labs and Centers of Excellence that enable joint training, prototyping, and upskilling on campus. Proximity to Bengaluru’s technology cluster supports internships, capstone co‑supervision, and consultancy engagements throughout the year. Research here is supported by competitive national programs and industry, including DRDO/NRB, AICTE, and ISRO collaborations. An IP Coordination Cell, together with incubation resources and a student‑run Entrepreneurship Development Cell, assists with patenting, licensing, and venture formation.
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