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Advancing climate adaptation in saffron through CRISPR-based modulation of stress tolerance and photoperiodic
Qudrat Ullah1, Waqas Haider1, Muhammad Zeshan1
1Food Technology and Innovation Research Center of Excellence, School of Agricultural Technology and Food Industry, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand.
Abstract:
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a high-value crop known for its intricate harvesting process and limited production due to factors like triploid sterility and specific climatic needs. This review discusses biotechnological methods, particularly CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, aimed at improving heat and drought tolerance and achieving year-round flowering. Such genetic edits as evidenced with experimental CRISPR/Cas9 systems that reach up to 70% callus initiation in saffron. Cultivation efficiency and quality are increased in Hydroponic systems and synthetic bioreactors, which have been proven in trials in non-traditional areas such as North Bengal, India. Nonetheless, internationalization threatens the market value and cultural integrity of saffron, and such measures as fair-trade labels, GI laws, and cooperatives of stakeholders must be implemented fairly and equally.
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