Study of functional features of plant root systems using CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing

CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing is a powerful tool of plant functional genomics. Hairy root transformation is a rapid and convenient approach for obtaining transgenic roots. When combined, these techniques represent a fast and effective means of studying gene function [1, 2]. A common construct for efficient genome editing and selection of hairy roots is comprised of three components, i.e., a cassette carrying the gene encoding the Cas nuclease, a cassette expressing the guide RNA (gRNA), and a cassette encoding a screenable or selectable marker [2]. After design and construction, the resulting vector is used to transform plant using appropriateRhizobium rhizogenesstrain. Over 26 plant species have been used in experiments combining genome editing and hairy root transformation to date [2]. Possible applications of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing using hairy root transformation include different directions like test the efficiency of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing; obtaining whole genome-edited plants regenerated from individual edited hairy roots; investigation of root development or root function, root nodule symbiosis, resistance to biotic or abiotic stresses, or metabolic engineering [2]. The basic principles of plant CRISPR/Cas genome editing like the different components of CRISPR/Cas vectors, the types of Cas nuclease, design principles of gRNAs, as well as the possible applications of CRISPR/Cas genome editing in hairy roots will discuss. The application of this method for multigene editing strategy will also be demonstrated onDEEPER ROOTING1genes of cucumber. The study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation (Grant No. 075-15-2021-1056).