The Power and Perils of De Novo Domestication Using Genome Editing

There is intense interest in using genome editing technologies to domesticate wild plants, or accelerate the improvement of weakly domesticated crops, in de novo domestication. Here, we discuss promising genetic strategies, with a focus on plant development. Importantly, genome editing releases us from dependence on random mutagenesis or intraspecific diversity, allowing us to draw solutions more broadly from diversity. However, sparse understanding of the complex genetics of diversity limits innovation. Beyond genetics, we urge the ethical use of indigenous knowledge, indigenous plants, and ethnobotany. De novo domestication still requires conventional breeding by phenotypic selection, especially in the development of crops for diverse environments and cultures. Indeed, uniting genome editing with selective breeding could facilitate faster and better outcomes than either technology alone. Domestication is complex and incompletely understood, involving changes to many aspects of plant biology and human culture. Success in de novo domestication requires careful attention to history and collaboration across traditional boundaries.

Automated summary

There is a strong interest in using genome editing to domesticate wild plants or improve weakly domesticated crops through de novo domestication. Genetic strategies, especially in plant development, are discussed as promising approaches. Genome editing allows us to draw solutions from diversity rather than relying on random mutagenesis or intraspecific diversity. However, limited understanding of the complex genetics of diversity hinders innovation. In addition to genetics, the ethical use of indigenous knowledge, indigenous plants, and ethnobotany is emphasized. De novo domestication still requires conventional breeding through phenotypic selection, particularly for crops in diverse environments and cultures. Combining genome editing with selective breeding could lead to faster and better outcomes than using either technology alone. Domestication is a complex and not fully understood process that involves changes in various aspects of plant biology and human culture. Successful de novo domestication requires careful attention to history and collaboration across traditional boundaries.