Caused by a fungus, powdery mildew poses a serious threat to European vineyards that have not previously experienced the disease. As part of the project, scientists adapted the CRISPR/Cas genome editor to efficiently make changes to the grape genome. While the method has previously only been used successfully to edit white Chardonnay grapes, the new approach greatly increases its effectiveness.
The key element of the new technique was the addition of chitosan to the nutrient medium, which activates cellular immunity and increases the probability of successful DNA editing. It also facilitates the editing process by reducing the production of protective antioxidants.
Source: Ferra
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