Use of CRISPR-Cas tools to engineer Trichoderma species

Given their lignocellulose degradability and biocontrol activities, fungi of the ubiquitously distributed genus Trichoderma have multiple industrial and agricultural applications. Genetic manipulation plays a valuable role in tailoring novel engineered strains with enhanced target traits. Nevertheless, as applied to fungi, the classic tools of genetic manipulation tend to be time-consuming and tedious. However, the recent development of the CRISPR-Cas system for gene editing has enabled researchers to achieve genome-wide gene disruptions, gene replacements, and precise editing, and this technology has emerged as a primary focus for novel developments in engineered strains of Trichoderma. Here, we provide a brief overview of the traditional approaches to genetic manipulation, the different strategies employed in establishing CRSIPR-Cas systems, the utilization of these systems to develop engineered strains of Trichoderma for desired applications, and the future trends in biotechnology.