Using CRISPR-Kill for organ specific cell elimination by cleavage of tandem repeats

CRISPR/Cas has been mainly used for mutagenesis through the induction of double strand breaks (DSBs) within unique protein-coding genes. Using the SaCas9 nuclease to induce multiple DSBs in functional repetitive DNA of Arabidopsis thaliana, we can now show that cell death can be induced in a controlled way. This approach, named CRISPR-Kill, can be used as tool for tissue engineering. By simply exchanging the constitutive promoter of SaCas9 with cell type-specific promoters, it is possible to block organogenesis in Arabidopsis. By AP1-specific expression of CRISPR-Kill, we are able to restore the apetala1 phenotype and to specifically eliminate petals. In addition, by expressing CRISPR-Kill in root-specific pericycle cells, we are able to dramatically reduce the number and the length of lateral roots. In the future, the application of CRISPR-Kill may not only help to control development but could also be used to change the biochemical properties of plants.

Automated summary

CRISPR/Cas is mainly used for mutagenesis, but this study shows that induction of cell death can be achieved using the SaCas9 nuclease, referred to as CRISPR-Kill, for tissue engineering. By replacing the promoter, organogenesis can be blocked and specific traits can be targeted, such as eliminating petals and reducing lateral root numbers and length. CRISPR-Kill may have implications not only for controlling development but also altering biochemical properties of plants.