Researchers at Palacky University in Olomouc have begun the first field trial in the European Union of barley developed using CRISPR genome editing. The spring barley with shortened stems was created using new breeding techniques (NGT) by the Laboratory of Growth Regulators, a joint unit of the Faculty of Science at Palacky University and the Institute of Experimental Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences. Approval from the Ministry of the Environment allows the team to test the barley under field conditions.
Using CRISPR/Cas9, scientists targeted the PIL1 gene, which regulates stem growth in response to light. The resulting plant, TL-GP-PIL1, differs from the original variety by a single mutation, with no foreign DNA present. Initial growth occurred in a greenhouse under controlled conditions.
During the four-year field trial, researchers will monitor growth phases, yield, and grain quality. The study also includes crossing the edited line with elite Czech spring barley varieties. This project builds on previous research aimed at improving the nutritional properties of barley and demonstrates the potential of genome editing for future crop development.
Source: Palacky University in Olomouc
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