HARNESSING CRISPR-CAS SYSTEMS FOR GENETIC ENHANCEMENT OF CROP RESISTANCE TO ABIOTIC STRESSORS

Abstract

Abiotic stressors such as drought, salinity, temperature extremes, and heavy metal toxicity are among the leading constraints to global agricultural productivity. Traditional breeding approaches have had limited success in overcoming these challenges due to the complexity and polygenic nature of stress tolerance traits. Recent advances in genome editing, particularly CRISPR-Cas systems, offer unprecedented opportunities for precise genetic manipulation to enhance crop resilience. CRISPR-Cas9, Cas12a, and base-editing platforms allow targeted modifications of stress-responsive genes, enabling plants to better withstand unfavorable conditions without compromising yield potential. This paper explores the theoretical underpinnings, applied strategies, and future directions of CRISPR technology in engineering stress-resistant crops. It highlights mechanisms such as editing of transcription factors regulating stress pathways, modulation of ion transporters for salinity tolerance, and optimization of heat-shock proteins for thermal resilience. Experimental case studies in rice, maize, and wheat demonstrate the utility of CRISPR-based strategies in crop improvement. However, biosafety, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance remain significant challenges to field-level deployment. Through an integrated approach that combines molecular biology, bioinformatics, and ecological considerations, CRISPR-Cas systems could revolutionize sustainable agriculture and contribute to global food security.