Establishing a CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing framework in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) by targeting phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene disruption.

ABSTRACT: Pigeonpea is an important legume valued for its high nutritional, agricultural, and economic significance in the Asian subcontinent. Despite its potential for high yield, productivity remains stagnant due to several abiotic and biotic stresses. To mitigate these challenges, biotechnological interventions like genome editing offer promising solutions. Towards this, developing a species-specific editing toolkit is crucial for recalcitrant species like pigeonpea. In this study, we established a CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system targeting the phytoene desaturase (PDS) gene. We developed pigeonpea-compatible vector components, including the CcU6_7.1 promoter and an amenable Cas9 gene driven by the potato ubiquitin promoter, creating a pigeonpea-specific CRISPR/Cas9 binary vector (PP_CRISPR_pCAM

SUBMITTER: Senthil K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11847732 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature