Researchers in South Africa have developed the first genetically edited grapevine on the African continent. The scientists used CRISPR technology to increase resistance to diseases and improve tolerance to water scarcity. A breakthrough with the potential to protect grape production from climate change. ✍️ Carla Amaro / CiB A team of scientists from Stellenbosch University and the Agricultural Research Council in South Africa has achieved a historic milestone in African biotechnology by developing the first genetically edited grapevine on the continent. The work, published in the scientific journal Plant Stress, used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to deactivate a specific gene, known as VvDMR6.1, associated with plant susceptibility to infections. The main objective was to combat downy mildew, a devastating fungal disease that poses a constant threat to viticulture worldwide. By silencing this gene, the scientists managed to significantly reduce the grapevine's vulnerability to the ...