Genome editing for herbicide tolerance in rice targeting oshppd and oshis1
This project utilizes CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to develop herbicide-tolerant rice by mutating OsHPPD and OsHIS1 genes. This innovation addresses weed management in Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) systems, enhancing yield potential amid labor and water scarcity.
Overview
The genome editing project focuses on enhancing herbicide tolerance in rice by targeting the OsHPPD and OsHIS1 genes. By using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, the project aims to create rice varieties that can withstand specific herbicides, addressing significant weed management challenges in Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) systems. This approach is critical for improving rice yield potential, especially in regions facing labor and water shortages.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis to induce site-specific mutations in the OsHPPD gene and base substitutions in the HIS1 gene.
- Targets the development of rice varieties that exhibit tolerance to HPPD and HIS1-inhibiting herbicides.
- Focuses on generating transgenic rice plants of varieties Anna 4 and PMK 3 with enhanced herbicide tolerance.
- Aims to identify and evaluate vector-free and homozygous mutants for agronomic superiority and future breeding applications.
Technology readiness level
The project is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that experimental proof of concept has been achieved. The next steps include further validation of the herbicide-tolerant rice through field trials and breeding applications.
About Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is a comprehensive state agricultural university headquartered in Coimbatore, combining education, research, and statewide extension at scale. Co-located experimental farms, commodity research stations, and pilot processing facilities provide industry with sites for field trials, prototyping, and product validation. An extensive extension network connects faculty with growers and supply chains, while proximity to Tamil Nadu’s agri‑machinery, textiles, and food‑processing base supports collaboration and talent pipelines. Research is supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, the Government of Tamil Nadu, and competitive national programs such as DST and DBT. A dedicated technology transfer office and agribusiness incubation services facilitate IP, licensing, startup formation, and contract research.
delivered to your inbox.