CRISPR gene editing advances in agriculture and laboratory automation

Developments in CRISPR gene editing technology are advancing both in agricultural applications and laboratory research workflows. In Canada, several gene-edited products are already on the market or scheduled for release, including modified potatoes, mustard greens, and strawberries. Future projections through 2028 include gene-edited corn for high amylopectin starch, alfalfa for improved forage quality, and PRRSV-resistant pigs.

In the research sector, efforts are underway to streamline CRISPR workflows through automation and miniaturization. Collaborations between INTEGRA, DropGenie, and QUiCKR Bio aim to address challenges in cell engineering and edit quantification. By utilizing automated liquid handling solutions and pipetting robots, laboratories can increase the speed and reproducibility of gene editing, reducing the time required for manual reagent introduction and complex sequencing-based analysis.