Researchers at NC State University have developed a groundbreaking method using CRISPR gene-editing technology to breed poplar trees with reduced lignin levels. Lignin is known to be a significant hindrance to sustainable wood fiber production due to its resistance to break down, and reducing its levels could make fiber production more efficient and eco-friendly.
The researchers employed predictive modeling to establish goals for lowering lignin levels and increasing the carbohydrate-to-lignin (C/L) ratio and the ratio of two key lignin building blocks, syringyl to guaiacyl (S/G). Subsequently, they identified 347 gene-editing strategies and carefully selected the most promising seven that would result in trees possessing the desired characteristics.
Utilizing the powerful CRISPR gene-editing technique, the scientists managed to produce 174 lines of poplar trees with reduced lignin content, as well as increased C/L and S/G ratios. Remarkably, trees with four to six gene edits demonstrated even more substantial lignin reductions compared to trees with only one gene edit.
In addition to its positive impact on lignin levels, the study suggests that decreased lignin content in trees could significantly enhance pulp yield and reduce black liquor, the primary byproduct of pulping. If implemented at an industrial scale, this could boost sustainable fiber production by an impressive 40% and potentially reduce associated greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%.
The researchers highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in achieving these groundbreaking results. Moving forward, the next steps involve further testing of the gene-edited trees in greenhouse and field trials to evaluate their performance in comparison to wild trees.
The success of this research has led the team to establish a startup called TreeCo, dedicated to advancing the application of CRISPR technologies in forest trees. Funding for this groundbreaking research was made possible through grants from various organizations, including the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the National Science Foundation, and the North Carolina Specialty Crop Block Grants.
This remarkable breakthrough in gene-editing technology brings hope for a more sustainable and efficient future for wood fiber production. With continued research and development, the potential environmental benefits of reduced lignin content in trees could be realized, paving the way toward a greener and more eco-friendly industry.
