CRISPR/Cas-based precision genome editing via microhomology-mediated end joining

Plant Biotechnol J. 2021 Feb;19(2):230-239. doi: 10.1111/pbi.13490. Epub 2020 Nov 9.

Abstract

Gene editing and/or allele introgression with absolute precision and control appear to be the ultimate goals of genetic engineering. Precision genome editing in plants has been developed through various approaches, including oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis (ODM), base editing, prime editing and especially homologous recombination (HR)-based gene targeting. With the advent of CRISPR/Cas for the targeted generation of DNA breaks (single-stranded breaks (SSBs) or double-stranded breaks (DSBs)), a substantial advancement in HR-mediated precise editing frequencies has been achieved. Nonetheless, further research needs to be performed for commercially viable applications of precise genome editing; hence, an alternative innovative method for genome editing may be required. Within this scope, we summarize recent progress regarding precision genome editing mediated by microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ) and discuss their potential applications in crop improvement.

Keywords: CRISPR; DNA repair; MMEJ; PITCh; cas; microhomology; precision gene editing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • CRISPR-Cas Systems / genetics
  • Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats*
  • DNA Breaks, Double-Stranded
  • DNA End-Joining Repair
  • Gene Editing*
  • Gene Targeting
  • Homologous Recombination