Xi Wang¹ , Yiwei Li¹ , Fuping Liu¹ , Wenbin Dong² , Liyu Liang¹ , Dongkui Chen¹ , Hongli Li¹ , Huihong Liao¹

1 Horticultural Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China
2 Agriculture Resource and Environment Research Institute, Guangxi Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 3   doi: 10.5376/ijh.2024.14.0016
Received: 02 May, 2024    Accepted: 03 Jun., 2024    Published: 15 Jun., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Wang X., Li Y.W., Liu F.P., Dong W.B., Liang L.Y., Chen D.K., Li H.L., and Liao H.H., 2024, Developing citrus germplasm resistant to Asian citrus psyllid using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology: recent advances and challenges, International Journal of Horticulture, 14(3): 136-149 (doi: 10.5376/ijh.2024.14.0016)

This study aims to explore recent advances and challenges in developing citrus germplasm resistant to the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology. The focus is on identifying key genetic targets, evaluating the effectiveness of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated edits, and discussing the implications for sustainable citrus production. Several case studies demonstrate the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 to enhance resistance without compromising yield and fruit quality. Advances in CRISPR/Cas9 techniques, such as base and prime editing, have improved the precision and efficiency of gene editing in citrus. Additionally, field trials have validated the effectiveness of these edited plants in real-world conditions. The findings underscore the significant potential of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in developing ACP-resistant citrus germplasm. However, technical challenges, off-target effects, genetic stability, and regulatory and public acceptance issues remain. Continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and clear regulatory frameworks are essential to fully realize the benefits of CRISPR/Cas9 in citrus breeding. These efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of the citrus industry.

Citrus germplasm; Asian citrus psyllid (ACP); CRISPR/Cas9; Huanglongbing (HLB); Gene editing; Plant resistance; Sustainable agriculture