Researchers from Naturegenic reported a new method for precise genome
engineering using a preassembled CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein (RNP)
complex. Traditional trait development used to depend on genetic variations
from spontaneous or artificial mutation, however, these methods lead to low
probability of generating the desired traits. The new method reported in
Transgenic Research journal showed to be more precise and can be used among
different species without leaving any foreign DNA footprint in the genomes.

The researchers initially obtained protoplasts after removing the plant cell
wall, then the RNP was introduced into the plant nucleus. Whole plants were
regenerated from single cell of protoplasts engineered with RNP. Results
confirmed successfully engineered plant genomes without traces of foreign
DNA.

The results of the study could help develop new traits in crop plants using
protoplast regeneration technology safely and precisely in less time.

[link.springer.com]