CRISPR/Cas9: An innovative biotechnological approach for the improvement of oilseeds

Abstract

The growing demand for vegetable oils, driven by population growth, dietary shifts, and the need for sustainable resources, has highlighted challenges in oilseed production. Climate change, along with pest and disease pressures, has further complicated the production landscape. Traditional breeding techniques have made progress in improving oilseed traits, but are time-consuming and limited by unintended genetic traits. This chapter explores the transformative potential of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology for oilseed improvement. With its precision and efficiency, CRISPR has enabled the enhancement of traits such as oil content, fatty acid composition, and resistance to environmental and biotic stresses. We discuss the advancements, challenges, and prospects of using CRISPR/Cas9 to develop oilseed crops that are resilient, high-yielding, and better suited to meet the global demand for sustainable vegetable oil production.