Conditional and tissue-specific approaches to dissect essential mechanisms in plant development

Reverse genetics approaches are routinely used to investigate gene function. However, mutations, especially in critical genes, can lead to pleiotropic effects as severe as lethality, thus limiting functional studies in specific contexts. Approaches that allow for modifications of genes or gene products in a specific spatial or temporal setting can overcome these limitations. The Palindromic Repeats) technologies has not only revolutionized targeted genome modification in plants but also enabled new possibilities for inducible and tissue-specific manipulation of gene functions at the DNA and RNA levels. In addition, novel approaches for the direct manipulation of target proteins have been introduced in plant systems. Here, we review the current development in tissue-specific and conditional manipulation approaches at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels.

Automated summary

Reverse genetics approaches are widely used for studying gene function, but severe mutations can limit functional studies in specific environments. The CRISPR technology has revolutionized targeted genome modification in plants, enabling inducible and tissue-specific manipulation of gene function at the DNA and RNA levels. Additionally, novel approaches for directly manipulating target proteins have been introduced in plant systems.