Modern biotechnology, through tools like CRISPR/Cas9, is opening new possibilities to improve food quality and human health, transforming key sectors such as agriculture and medicine.
Modern biotechnology has revolutionized the biological sciences, offering innovative solutions to address challenges in areas such as health, agriculture, and food production. One of the most notable advancements in this field is gene editing, a technology that allows for precise modifications to an organism's DNA. Among the most powerful tools for gene editing is CRISPR/Cas9, a gene-editing system that is fast, cost-effective, and efficient. This tool has opened a range of possibilities for improving animal and plant species, transforming the way we tackle issues such as food allergies and genetic improvement of crops.
One of the most exciting applications of CRISPR/Cas9 in modern biotechnology is the potential to reduce food allergies, specifically cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), which affects a significant percentage of infants. β-lactoglobulin, a protein found in bovine milk, is one of the main causes of this allergy. With the use of CRISPR/Cas9, researchers are working to create cattle whose milk lacks this protein, thus reducing its allergenic potential and providing a safer and more nutritious source of milk for allergic children. This advancement could positively impact the quality of life for many children who are currently unable to consume cow's milk due to allergic reactions.
The gene editing process with CRISPR/Cas9 not only involves cutting DNA at specific locations but also requires precise design of the guide RNA (sgRNA), which directs the Cas9 enzyme to the exact site where the cut is to be made. Proper design of the sgRNAs is essential to ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the process. In the case of the hypoallergenic milk project, sgRNAs were selected to target the bovine BLG gene to interrupt the production of β-lactoglobulin. Preliminary studies on the sgRNAs and potential "off-targets" or unwanted cuts in other parts of the genome are crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring the success of the project.
Biotechnology not only offers solutions for improving human health but is also transforming agriculture. With the growing global demand for food due to population growth, gene-editing tools like CRISPR/Cas9 provide an effective response to enhance the productivity and quality of agricultural products in reduced time frames. The future of biotechnology promises a world in which we can create more nutritious, disease-resistant foods that are adapted to changing climate conditions, which will be essential for ensuring food security in the coming decades.
