CA Topic

Gene-Edited Bananas

March 11, 2025 en

Brief Context

Recently, a UK-based biotech company developed genetically-engineered bananas that have a longer shelf-life and do not brown as much.

Syllabus :GS3/Science and Technology

Recently, a UK-based biotech company developed genetically-engineered bananas that have a longer shelf-life and do not brown as much.

Bananas undergo a ripening process triggered by ethylene, a hormone they produce in large quantities.
Ethylene activates genes that produce polyphenol oxidase (PPO), an enzyme that causes browning by breaking down the yellow pigment in bananas.
Bruising increases ethylene production, speeding up ripening and browning.

Scientists genetically modified bananas by silencing the gene that produces PPO, preventing browning.
This genetic modification does not stop ripening but keeps the fruit looking fresh longer.
A similar technique was used in Arctic apples, which have been commercially sold since 2017.

It is a method that allows scientists to modify the DNA of various organisms (plants, bacteria, animals).
It leads to changes in physical traits (e.g., eye color) and disease risk.
Early genome editing technologies were developed in the late 1900s.
The CRISPR tool, invented in 2009, revolutionized genome editing by making it simpler, faster, cheaper, and more accurate.
CRISPR is now widely used by scientists for genome editing due to its efficiency and precision.

CRISPR Technology Advancements: While CRISPR-Cas9 remains a cornerstone, research is expanding to explore other Cas enzymes (like Cas12 and Cas13) and alternative CRISPR systems.
Improved Delivery Methods: Researchers are developing more efficient and targeted delivery systems, including viral vectors, lipid nanoparticles, and other innovative approaches.
Gene Therapy for Genetic Diseases: Gene editing is showing promise for treating inherited disorders like sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, and Huntington’s disease.
Crop Improvement: Gene editing is being used to develop crops with enhanced traits, such as increased yield, improved nutritional value, and resistance to pests and diseases.

Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under MoEFCC oversees gene-editing approvals.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates genetically modified (GM) food products.

India has approved GM Mustard hybrid DMH-11 for its seed production and testing but has not yet approved CRISPR-based crops.
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is exploring gene-editing research aimed at enhancing climate resilience and pest resistance in crops.

Source :IE