Relevance: GS III – Biotechnology, Agriculture • 

Source: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Indian Express

Indian scientists at ICAR–Central Rice Research Institute have developed a new genome-editing (GE) tool based on TnpB proteins, offering a low-cost, indigenous alternative to CRISPR-Cas systems. The Indian Patent Office has granted a 20-year patent for the technology.

Why This Matters

• Overcomes intellectual property barriers linked to CRISPR-Cas9/Cas12a patents controlled by foreign institutions.
• Enables cheaper, scalable, commercial breeding of genome-edited crops in India.
• Supports food security, climate-resilient agriculture and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

What is Genome Editing(GE)? 

• GE modifies genes already present in a plant without adding foreign DNA (unlike GM crops).
• Uses a molecular scissors protein and a guide RNA to make precise DNA cuts.
• Results in traits like higher yield, drought/salt tolerance, disease resistance.

TnpB vs CRISPR 

5. Recent ICAR Applications 

• GE Samba Mahsuri rice: Edited cytokinin oxidase-2 gene → higher grain yield (CRISPR-Cas12a).
  
• GE MTU-1010 rice: Edited DST gene → drought & salinity tolerance (CRISPR-Cas9).
  
• Commercial release slow due to international patent restrictions → the new TnpB tool addresses this gap.

Prelims Practice Question

1. Genome editing introduces foreign genes into plants to improve agronomic traits.
2. TnpB proteins are smaller than Cas9 proteins and can be delivered through viral vectors.

Which one is correct?
A. Only 1 B. Only 2 C. Both D. None

Answer: B
(Statement 1 is incorrect — GE edits existing genes; GM introduces foreign DNA.)