Genome Editing Tools and Their Application in Sugarcane improvement

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) is a vital crop for sugar and bioenergy production; however, its genetic improvement has been constrained by its complex polyploid genome, long breeding cycles, and limited genetic diversity. To enhance the precision of gene editing in sugarcane, the CRISPR-Cas12a system can be adopted, as it recognises thymine (T)-rich PAM sequences instead of the guanine (G)-rich PAM sequences required by CRISPR-Cas9, thereby reducing off-target risks. Genome editing technologies - particularly CRISPR/Cas systems, TALENs, and Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs)-provide precise, efficient, and targeted modifications of the plant genome, enabling the development of improved varieties with desirable traits. These tools have been successfully employed to enhance sugar content, disease resistance, stress tolerance, and biomass yield in sugarcane. Recent advancements in CRISPR-Cas9 have further transformed plant research by enabling highly accurate gene deletions, insertions, and replacements. Overall, this review highlights the latest progress in genome editing tools, their delivery methods, and practical applications in sugarcane improvement, emphasizing their potential to overcome the limitations of conventional breeding and promote sustainable crop productivity.