Genome editing

Since the 1950s, mutagenesis has been used to induce changes in the genetic material of plants with the aim of creating new traits of interest. This is achieved through exposure to mutagenic agents, which can be chemical or physical, which can be chemical or physical, and which increase the likelihood of DNA mutations. These mutations are random and occur throughout the genome, that is, they are not directed at any specific gene or region, making subsequent analysis and selection of the plants necessary. Many foods we find in supermarkets today are obtained using these techniques, such as seedless mandarins. The complete list of all varieties can be found at in this database from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

To make this mutagenesis more targeted, we now have what are called New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), which are gene-editing techniques (also called genetic editing or genome editing). These are a group of technologies that allow adding, removing, or altering genetic material with a high degree of precision and specificity (unlike random induced mutagenesis). Several genome editing techniques have been developed, and are currently being developed, including the technique known as CRISPR-Cas, for which the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded in 2020 (for more information, click here). With these technologies, precise modifications can be made to a genome without producing multiple random mutations or introducing genes from other organisms, thus facilitating the development of plants with improved characteristics.

During genome replication, errors in the bases (letters) of the DNA strand are common, although the cell's machinery is usually able to repair them. However, under certain circumstances (external conditions, internal failures, etc.), the cell cannot repair these errors, and random changes are introduced into the gene sequence,called mutations.. 

This is a natural process in all living things and is precisely what allows for genetic variability and the evolution of species. Since the Neolithic period, some 10,000 years ago, humans have used these spontaneous mutations for the domestication of plants, selecting and cultivating them to adapt them to our needs. This process has led to significant changes in the morphology, physiology, and genetics of plants, which has allowed for the development of a wide variety of crops.

Transgenesis is the process of transferring genes from one organism into the genome of another. This method is used in plant breeding to introduce desirable traits from one plant or microorganism, such as pest resistance or herbicide tolerance, into another plant of interest, resulting in a variety with new characteristics.

Genetically modified or GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) plants undergo exhaustive risk analyses, which consist of rigorous studies to assess their safety, environmental impact and effectiveness before use and consumption.