Genetic editing reinforces plants' natural defense

The recovery of natural defense mechanisms in plants through genetic editing has been gaining traction as an alternative to reduce losses caused by agricultural pests. The technique allows for the rescue of alpha-amylase inhibitor proteins, characteristics of wild varieties that can make starch practically indigestible for insects that attack seeds and grains, without altering digestibility for humans and animals. The strategy seeks to reinforce the protection of widely consumed crops, such as corn and legumes, which are especially vulnerable to beetles and other species that degrade starch. An article published in the Biotechnology Journal reviews advances made over the last two decades and highlights the potential of genetic editing to increase the production of these inhibitors. The work, conducted by researchers from Embrapa and the Center for Research in Genomics for Climate Change, brings together results on the prospecting of genes involved in the synthesis of inhibitors, ...