Gene Editing To Provide Insect Resistance In Crops

Patent Status

Patent Pending

Brief Description

Plants rely on systemic signaling mechanisms to establish whole-plant defense in response to insect and nematode attack. The Glutamate receptor-like (GLR) genes have been implicated in long-distance propagation of wound signals to initiate accumulation of defense hormone jasmonate (JA) at undamaged distal sites.

UCB researchers have shown the ability to desensitize GLR channels, providing a potential target for engineering anti-herbivore defense in crops.

Suggested uses

Gene editing of plants for enhanced insect resistance