Genome editing in rice using CRISPR/Cas12i3

The CRISPR/Cas type V-I is a family of programmable nuclease systems that prefers a T-rich protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) and is guided by a short crRNA. In this study, the genome-editing application of Cas12i3, a type V-I family endonuclease, was characterized in rice. We developed a CRIPSR/Cas12i3-based Multiplex direct repeats (DR)-spacer Array Genome Editing (iMAGE) system that was efficient in editing various genes in rice. Interestingly, iMAGE produced chromosomal structural variations with a higher frequency than CRISPR/Cas9. In addition, we developed base editors using deactivated Cas12i3 and generated herbicide-resistant rice plants using the base editors. These CRIPSR/Cas12i3-based genome editing systems will facilitate precision molecular breeding in plants.

Automated summary

This study characterized the genome editing application of Cas12i3, a type V-I family endonuclease, in rice. A CRISPR/Cas12i3-based iMAGE system was developed, which efficiently edited various genes in rice and produced chromosomal structural variations with a higher frequency than CRISPR/Cas9. Base editors using deactivated Cas12i3 were also developed, resulting in the generation of herbicide-resistant rice plants. These CRISPR/Cas12i3-based genome editing systems will facilitate precision molecular breeding in plants.