Editing by Grafting: Advancing transgene-free genome editing in grain cereal crops via grafting

The CRISPR-Cas9 system, originally discovered in bacteria, has revolutionized biology by allowing precise DNA double-strand breaks, resulting in mutations. However, adopting this microbial defence system for gene editing crops is still far from being simple, and the application is limited to a handful of model varieties from the major crops. In this project, I propose a novel and timely way to produce transgene-free CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing in cereal grain crops that are usually resistant to traditional transformation methods. The strategy will combine grafting, a conventional procedure used in horticulture, with CRISPR-based genome editing, producing transgene-free progeny with accurate edition in target genes. To accomplish this, a novel methodology is used to transport geneediting material from the roots to the shoots of grafted monocots plants.