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A SWOT analysis of the implications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in crop production: A Review

Gilbert Ndutu Munywoki*,Justus Mulinge Munywoki

CRISPR/Cas9 technology has become popular in modern plant science and allows crop scientists to manipulate DNA sequences and modify gene function. Gene editing using CRISPR has been used in different food crops such as potato, tomato, maize, rice, and fruits such as oranges and bananas. CRISPR technology is precise in gene targeting, efficient, and has shown positive results in domesticating beneficial traits of wild plant lines. Most studies focus more on gene editing using CRISPR in crops as well as future perspectives. However, few studies address CRISPR from a holistic view by looking at its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Therefore, in this review paper, we address CRISPR/Cas9 in crops from a SWOT analysis perspective. The technology is essential for crop enhancement in terms of longevity, nutrition, and palatability. Through CRISPR, crops are engineered to thrive and produce in environments with abiotic and biotic stress. However, despite the wide adaptation of CRISPR, there are scientific concerns on unintended genomic aberrations that trigger biosafety concerns to humanity and the environment. Lack of standard regulation and authorization of the technology also arise. There is low adoption due to skepticism from opposing views of some religious groups and bioethicists. Although CRISPR technology can be a focal point to crop production, there is a need to forge a common understanding of the development, use, and regulation. Informed consensus between political, economic, religious, and scientific groups is essential to examine this technology's scientific imperative critically.