VIB has submitted an application for a new field trial of genome-edited maize. The field trial will look into the development and composition of plant cell walls and how they can be changed to optimize applications in the paper and pulp industry, bioenergy, but more so in the use of plants in animal feed.

Scientists from the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology have disabled specific genes in maize that are involved in cell wall formation. Using CRISPR-Cas gene editing technique, changes were made in genes involved in lignin production. The result is that there is 20% less lignin in the cell wall, which is expected to improve the digestibility of maize, making it easier for the animals that consume this crop to absorb energy and nutrients. This field trial is an important step in research aimed at improving the nutritional value of crops. The maize plants have only been tested in a greenhouse. Through the field trial, the researchers want to determine whether the maize also has less lignin in its cell wall under normal growing conditions.

In 2022, VIB also submitted applications for the conduct of three field trials of genome-edited maize after greenhouse observations showed that the modified plants are more resistant to climate stress or easier to digest.

For more details, read the announcement on the VIB website.

See https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/article/default.asp?ID=20628