Review reveals advances and bottlenecks in CRISPR-mediated stress resistance breeding across forest trees, highlighting pathways toward climate-resilient woody perennials.
Key Points
To review the mechanistic foundations, applications, and translational challenges of CRISPR-based genome editing for engineering stress resistance in woody forest species.
Synthesized principles and constraints of CRISPR systems (Cas9, Cas12, and Cas13) applied to woody perennial biology.
Evaluated trait modifications and translational bottlenecks across major forestry genera, including Populus, Pinus, and Eucalyptus.
CRISPR tools successfully engineered complex stress-resilience traits, including modified phytohormone signaling pathways for drought resistance and remodeled root system architecture.
Primary translational roadblocks include recalcitrant, genotype-dependent tissue regeneration and difficulties associated with long-term field validation.
Integrating CRISPR technologies with multi-omics, genomic selection, and high-throughput phenomics provides a strategic pathway to overcome perennial breeding bottlenecks.