Summary:
- Researchers at UCLA have developed a new, smaller version of the CRISPR gene-editing tool that can be more easily used to modify plant genomes.
- The miniaturized CRISPR system, called CRISPRmini, is about a third the size of the original CRISPR and can be packaged into smaller delivery vehicles, making it more efficient for plant genome editing.
- This new CRISPR tool has the potential to accelerate the development of new crop varieties with desirable traits, such as improved nutrition or resistance to diseases and pests, which could benefit agriculture and food production.