NIPGR scientists utilized CRISPR-Cas9 to gene-edit Japonica rice, increasing phosphate uptake and resulting in a 20% yield boost, or 40% with reduced fertilizer. By precisely removing a repressor binding site, the modified rice shows potential for sustainable agriculture, improving crop productivity while potentially reducing India's reliance on phosphate fertilizer imports.
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Scientists at the Delhi-based National Institute of Plant Genome Research (NIPGR) have used CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to increase phosphate uptake and transport in japonica rice varieties.
Japonica rice is one of the two main categories of cultivated rice in the world, specifically a type of Oryza sativa (the scientific name for Asian cultivated rice). The other major category is Indica rice.
It originated in northern and eastern China. Farmers now grow it extensively in various regions worldwide. It belongs to a broader family of rice called "sinica rice."
Grain Shape and Texture => Short to medium-sized grains that are roundish. When cooked, it becomes harder, thicker, and stickier compared to traditional long-grain white rice.
Harvesting => Its spikelets (the parts that hold the grains) are without awns (bristle-like parts) or have long awns, and its grains do not shatter easily during harvest.
Starch Content => It has a low amylose content, usually between 0-20%, which contributes to its sticky texture.
Varieties => This category includes several well-known varieties, such as sushi rice and glutinous rice. Even though it is called "glutinous," glutinous rice is entirely gluten-free.
Climate => Japonica rice growing primarily in cooler subtropical zones and temperate climates.
Major Growing Areas => Primary type of rice grown and eaten in Japan. People also widely cultivate and consume it in China, Korea, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
The different specific types of Japonica rice are called "cultivars." Each Japonica rice cultivar has been developed to have unique qualities, making them suitable for various cooking uses and different growing conditions. For example, some cultivars are best for sushi, while others might be ideal for a different dish.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which of the following statements correctly distinguishes between Somatic Cell Gene Editing and Germline Gene Editing in humans? A) Somatic cell editing aims to correct genetic defects in reproductive cells, while germline editing targets non-reproductive body cells. B) Genetic changes made through somatic cell editing are inheritable by future generations, whereas germline editing changes are not. C) Somatic cell editing affects the individual undergoing the therapy but not their offspring, while germline editing can pass changes to future generations. D) Germline editing is widely accepted for therapeutic purposes globally, while somatic cell editing is still in experimental stages. Answer: C Explanation: Somatic cell gene editing modifies genes in somatic (non-reproductive) cells of an individual. These changes affect only the treated individual and do not transmit to their offspring. Germline gene editing, however, involves modifying genes in reproductive cells (sperm, egg, or early embryos), making the changes heritable and passed down to future generations. |
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