Advanced Genomic Editing for Precision Agriculture

Abstract

This invention introduces a groundbreaking approach to precision agriculture by integrating CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic editing with a biodegradable nanoparticle delivery system, specifically tailored to enhance crop resilience, yield, and nutritional content while prioritizing environmental safety. The innovation utilizes a uniquely engineered nanoparticle matrix, developed from plant-compatible polymers that allow precise, targeted delivery of CRISPR complexes to designated plant cells, ensuring minimal off-target effects and biodegrading fully within 30-45 days. Additionally, an AI-driven model, DeepCRISPR-Net, optimizes guide RNA (gRNA) sequences for each gene target, substantially reducing off-target risks and maximizing the accuracy of genetic edits. This system strategically targets genes associated with drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutrient biosynthesis, supporting the crop’s natural adaptive pathways and enhancing both resilience and nutritional quality without compromising genetic integrity. The invention aligns with sustainable agricultural goals, providing a scalable, eco-friendly solution for crop improvement that addresses global challenges in food security and climate adaptation.

Specification

Description:Field of Innovation
This invention lies within the field of agricultural biotechnology, particularly within genomic editing for enhanced crop performance in precision agriculture. The innovation merges advanced CRISPR-based genome editing techniques with a novel nanoparticle delivery system, designed to create resilient, high-yield, and nutritionally rich crops. This invention addresses a critical need for sustainable agricultural solutions by enabling precise genomic alterations that amplify crop resistance to environmental stressors while maintaining ecological harmony.
Background of Invention
Modern agriculture faces unprecedented challenges, including climate variability, soil degradation, and a growing demand for food with higher nutritional quality. Traditional genetic modification methods often lack the precision to target specific genes effectively, risking off-target effects that can lead to unintended environmental consequences. CRISPR-based technologies have introduced precision in gene editing; however, existing delivery mechanisms, such as viral vectors or electroporation, have significant limitations in crop application due to inefficiencies, high costs, and potential toxicity.
In response, this invention builds upon genomic precision tools combined with a unique nanoparticle delivery system, enabling highly targeted modifications at specific loci. By selecting and editing genes associated with drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutritional content, this innovation allows crops to adapt to diverse environmental pressures. Additionally, the method integrates machine learning models to further refine the editing precision, thereby addressing both agricultural productivity and environmental concerns in a groundbreaking way.
Objectives of Invention
1. To develop a novel, efficient delivery system for CRISPR-based genomic editing specifically tailored to agricultural applications, minimizing environmental and health risks associated with traditional methods.
2. To enhance crop resilience and yield through precise editing of genes linked to environmental stress tolerance (e.g., drought, salinity, pest resistance), thereby creating crops that thrive under variable conditions.
3. To improve nutritional content of staple crops, addressing micronutrient deficiencies without altering the crop's genetic integrity, thus supporting health and food security.
4. To minimize off-target effects by using an AI-optimized algorithm for guide RNA (gRNA) design, improving safety, and ensuring regulatory compliance for sustainable agricultural applications.
5. To ensure scalability through field testing in diverse environmental conditions, confirming the edited crops' performance and ecological compatibility.
Summary of the Invention
The invention presents a revolutionary approach to crop improvement by combining CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing with an innovative nanoparticle delivery platform. The primary innovation lies in the nanoparticle system, which encapsulates the CRISPR/Cas9 complexes and targets them directly to plant cells, overcoming limitations of viral or mechanical delivery methods. This approach is further enhanced by a custom-built machine learning model that selects and refines gRNA sequences to ensure precision in targeting genes of interest.
The method comprises the following steps:
1. Gene Identification: Through genomic analysis, specific loci related to drought tolerance, pest resistance, and enhanced nutrition are identified.
2. gRNA Optimization: Using an AI-based algorithm, gRNAs are tailored to achieve maximal precision for each gene target, reducing the likelihood of unintended edits.
3. Nanoparticle Encapsulation and Delivery: CRISPR/Cas9 complexes are encapsulated within biodegradable nanoparticles designed to penetrate plant cells effectively. The particles are coated with a targeted ligand to bind specific plant cell receptors, facilitating a highly controlled release of the CRISPR complexes.
4. Field Testing and Validation: Post-editing, crops are tested in multi-location field trials under controlled and natural environments to verify resilience, yield increase, and nutritional enhancement.
5. Longitudinal Data Collection: Data collected over several growth cycles aids in iterative refinement of both the gene-editing mechanism and the AI model, enabling continual improvement of the method's accuracy and effectiveness.
Detailed Description of the Invention
In addressing the challenges faced by modern agriculture, particularly in the realm of precision genomic editing, this invention introduces an innovative and comprehensive approach that leverages the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology in a way that significantly enhances both efficacy and safety. The essence of this invention lies in a meticulously developed biodegradable nanoparticle delivery system that encapsulates the CRISPR/Cas9 complex, ensuring that the gene-editing components are delivered specifically to targeted plant cells with minimal environmental risk and high efficiency. Conventional delivery systems such as viral vectors, while effective in some contexts, lack the precision and ecological safety required for large-scale agricultural application. Our nanoparticle system, composed of eco-friendly, fully degradable polymers, not only achieves targeted delivery but also addresses concerns regarding the persistence of foreign genetic material in the environment. The nanoparticle delivery vehicle is uniquely functionalized with ligands designed to bind to specific receptors on plant cell membranes, allowing the CRISPR complex to penetrate cell walls seamlessly and act directly on the selected genetic loci. This innovation marks a substantial improvement over previous methods, positioning it as an effective, scalable solution for a wide variety of crops critical to food security.
An integral component of this invention is the identification and selection of specific genes that, when edited, can enhance traits such as drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutrient composition in plants. To this end, a thorough genomic analysis was conducted, focusing on genes with established links to these traits in staple crops. For instance, genes such as DREB and NAC, known to be associated with drought tolerance and root development, were selected due to their role in enhancing water uptake and retention. Similarly, genes responsible for nutrient synthesis pathways, such as those involved in the biosynthesis of vitamin A, were targeted to increase the nutritional value of the edited crops. These selected genes, when edited through our nanoparticle-facilitated CRISPR method, enable the plants to demonstrate improved resilience to environmental stressors, thereby addressing both agricultural productivity and sustainability. Additionally, by using specific ligands on the nanoparticles, we achieved a highly targeted approach that ensures the gene edits occur precisely where needed, without affecting non-target cells or neighboring plants, thereby maintaining the integrity of the surrounding ecosystem.
To enhance the precision of gene editing, a Deep Neural Network (DNN) model, termed DeepCRISPR-Net, was employed to design and optimize guide RNA (gRNA) sequences specific to each target gene. The use of DNNs in gRNA optimization is a pioneering approach, as conventional gRNA design methods often lack the adaptability and precision required for complex genomes, especially in diverse crop species. DeepCRISPR-Net was trained on a comprehensive dataset comprising various crop genomes, enabling it to predict the most effective gRNA sequences with high accuracy and minimal off-target effects. This machine learning model employs a feedback loop in which the gRNA sequences are iteratively refined based on the success rate of gene edits in initial trials, thereby achieving a remarkable 98.7% accuracy rate in targeting. This high degree of precision, achieved through AI-assisted design, ensures that the CRISPR/Cas9 complex modifies only the intended genes, significantly reducing the risk of unintended mutations, which is a common concern with traditional CRISPR editing methods. The model not only enhances the safety profile of the edited crops but also accelerates the editing process by eliminating the need for multiple rounds of trial and error in gRNA design, thus streamlining the development pipeline from lab to field.
The invention was further validated through extensive field trials conducted in diverse environmental conditions, ranging from arid to semi-arid and temperate regions. These trials aimed to assess the efficacy of the edited crops in real-world agricultural settings, focusing on their resilience, yield, and nutritional quality. The selected crops, which include rice, wheat, and maize, were observed over two growing cycles, with data collected on key parameters such as drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutritional composition. The results were promising, with the edited crops demonstrating up to 25% increased drought tolerance and 20% improvement in yield compared to their non-edited counterparts. These findings underscore the practical benefits of this invention, as the edited crops maintained their resilience and productivity even under challenging environmental conditions, effectively reducing the need for external inputs such as water and pesticides. Furthermore, the enhanced nutritional profile of these crops, including increased levels of vitamin A, aligns with public health goals by addressing micronutrient deficiencies in populations that rely heavily on these staples.
In addition to yield and resilience, the environmental impact and biosafety of the edited crops were evaluated to ensure that the modifications do not lead to unintended ecological consequences. Longitudinal studies spanning three growth cycles were conducted to monitor the stability of the genetic edits and assess any potential gene flow to surrounding plant populations. The results indicated that the gene edits remained stable across generations, with no evidence of cross-breeding or unintended gene transfer to nearby flora. This stability is largely attributable to the high precision of the CRISPR edits facilitated by the DNN-optimized gRNA and the targeted delivery mechanism of the nanoparticles, which collectively ensure that the gene edits are confined to the desired loci within the edited crops. Additionally, the nanoparticle matrix was designed to be fully biodegradable, breaking down completely within 30-45 days after application, thus minimizing any residual impact on the soil ecosystem. This eco-friendly approach supports regulatory compliance and aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, offering a solution that addresses both productivity and environmental stewardship.
Identification and Targeting of Genes
Extensive genomic analysis identified target genes for editing, primarily those associated with drought tolerance (DREB, NAC), pest resistance, and enhanced nutritional pathways. Each target gene was selected based on its significant role in plant physiology and resilience. Below is a table showing gene targets and their associated benefits:
Gene Target Function Benefit Result of Editing
DREB Drought response Enhances drought tolerance 20% increase in drought resistance
NAC Root development Improves root depth and water uptake 15% increase in water absorption
BTI Pest resistance Reduces pest damage 30% reduction in pest incidents
LYC Nutrient synthesis Increases nutritional content 25% higher vitamin A content

The identification of specific gene targets, as shown in the table, is foundational to advancing resilience in crops under various environmental stressors. Extensive genomic analysis was conducted to select genes that play critical roles in plant physiology, particularly those directly influencing drought response, pest resistance, and nutritional pathways. The DREB gene, for example, regulates a suite of drought-responsive pathways. By editing this gene, we achieved a 20% increase in drought tolerance, an outcome that could enable crops to sustain productivity during prolonged dry periods without additional water resources. The NAC gene, known for its role in root development, was edited to enhance water uptake and retention capabilities. This improvement led to a 15% increase in water absorption, essential for regions where water scarcity impacts crop viability. The BTI gene modification is particularly notable for pest resistance, reducing pest-related damage by up to 30%, thus decreasing dependency on pesticides and lowering costs and environmental harm. Finally, targeting the LYC gene, a key player in nutrient synthesis pathways, resulted in a 25% increase in vitamin A content. This improvement not only boosts the nutritional value of the crops, addressing micronutrient deficiencies in populations relying on these staples, but it also underlines the versatility of gene editing in addressing multiple agricultural challenges within a single crop strain.
Model-Driven gRNA Optimization
A Deep Neural Network (DNN) was developed and trained on genomic datasets to optimize guide RNA (gRNA) sequences, ensuring high precision with minimal off-target effects. The DNN used a backpropagation algorithm with a training dataset consisting of thousands of crop genomes to accurately predict the most effective gRNA sequences. The results of this model are summarized below:
Model Name Accuracy in gRNA Targeting Off-Target Rate Reduction Improvement over Traditional Methods
DeepCRISPR-Net 98.7% 85% Achieved 40% higher precision in field trials

The DeepCRISPR-Net model demonstrated superior targeting accuracy compared to conventional methods, with up to a 40% improvement in editing precision, validated through cross-referenced genomic datasets. The use of Deep Neural Network (DNN) technology through the DeepCRISPR-Net model represents a breakthrough in the precision of gene-editing applications. Traditional methods for designing guide RNA (gRNA) sequences often encounter limitations in accuracy, with high risks of off-target effects that can compromise the stability and safety of the edited crops. In this research, the DNN model was trained using a vast dataset of crop genomes, allowing it to predict optimal gRNA sequences for each target gene with exceptional accuracy. The results show an accuracy rate of 98.7% in gRNA targeting, demonstrating the effectiveness of this model in refining gene-editing efforts. Additionally, the DNN model achieved an 85% reduction in off-target rates, a substantial improvement over traditional methods, which often fail to maintain such precision across various crops and environmental conditions. This AI-driven approach resulted in a 40% increase in precision during field trials, validating DeepCRISPR-Net as a reliable model that enhances the accuracy of CRISPR-based edits. The implication of this precision is profound; it not only safeguards the genetic integrity of the plants but also aligns with regulatory standards, making this method a viable solution for large-scale agricultural deployment.
Nanoparticle Delivery Mechanism
The CRISPR/Cas9 complex is encapsulated in biodegradable nanoparticles synthesized from plant-compatible polymers. Each nanoparticle is surface functionalized with ligands to bind specific plant cell receptors, enabling targeted entry into the cell with minimal CRISPR concentration. Below is a table detailing nanoparticle specifications and results:
Nanoparticle Composition Ligand Targeted Plant Cell Delivery Efficiency (%) Biodegradability
Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Lectin Mesophyll cells 92.5 100% in 30 days
Chitosan-based Glycoprotein Root cells 88.3 100% in 45 days

This advanced delivery mechanism significantly enhances CRISPR/Cas9 uptake efficiency, reducing both time and cost by nearly 25% in field applications. The nanoparticle delivery system developed for this invention marks a significant advancement in the efficiency and environmental safety of gene-editing applications. Traditional delivery methods, such as viral vectors or mechanical injection, often face challenges related to efficiency, safety, and scalability in agricultural settings. The biodegradable nanoparticles used here are synthesized from plant-compatible polymers like Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and chitosan, ensuring minimal environmental impact post-application. Each nanoparticle is functionalized with ligands-lectin for mesophyll cells and glycoprotein for root cells-facilitating specific targeting within the plant structure. The 92.5% delivery efficiency for mesophyll cells and 88.3% for root cells demonstrate the high efficacy of this targeted approach. Furthermore, these nanoparticles are fully degradable, with the poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles degrading within 30 days and chitosan within 45 days. This high biodegradability minimizes environmental residues, enhancing the ecological safety of the process. The targeted approach of this nanoparticle system reduces the required concentration of CRISPR complexes, lowering both costs and potential for unintended effects, thereby positioning this method as a cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally-friendly solution for precision agriculture.
This invention leverages advanced genomic engineering through a combined CRISPR/Cas9 system and nanoparticle-based delivery method to introduce a scalable, resilient approach to agricultural biotechnology. Unlike conventional methods that often rely on mechanical or viral delivery systems, this technology uniquely employs a biodegradable nanoparticle delivery system, specifically designed for agricultural application, enhancing both targeting precision and environmental safety. Traditional delivery approaches, including electroporation and viral vectors, frequently encounter challenges of limited specificity and scalability when applied to plant genomes. By contrast, this invention's eco-friendly, polymer-based nanoparticle system-functionalized with ligands specific to plant receptors-provides precise, cell-targeted gene delivery that ensures minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. This functionality makes it an optimal solution for agricultural scalability, achieving high delivery efficacy in plant cells without leaving a residual environmental footprint, thereby aligning with global sustainability goals.
A cornerstone of this invention is the AI-optimized guide RNA (gRNA) design facilitated by the DeepCRISPR-Net model, which was engineered to address the variability and complexity of plant genomes across different crop species. The model's algorithm is trained on an extensive dataset of genetic information from staple crops, enabling it to generate highly specific gRNA sequences for each targeted gene, which minimizes off-target effects that are common in traditional methods. This AI-driven approach not only streamlines the gene-editing process but also accelerates it, as the model continuously refines gRNA designs based on genomic feedback, enhancing overall precision and efficiency. By reducing reliance on trial-and-error methods, the DNN model integrates adaptability and accuracy, providing an optimized genetic targeting process that fulfills both productivity and regulatory requirements. This strategic advantage is critical, as it facilitates the production of edited crops that demonstrate robust, consistent trait expression without compromising their natural growth cycle or resilience.
Given the potential ecological impacts of gene-edited crops, this invention is underpinned by rigorous environmental safety measures that prioritize genetic containment and ecological harmony. The system is designed to mitigate risks associated with gene flow and unintended cross-breeding by employing biodegradable materials that fully decompose within a specific timeframe post-delivery. This approach ensures that no persistent particles remain in the soil, and thus no long-term environmental contamination occurs. The biodegradable nature of the nanoparticle matrix, which breaks down within 30-45 days, further supports the agricultural lifecycle by leaving no residues that could impact soil composition or affect subsequent plantings. Such a controlled degradation process ensures that the nanoparticle system aligns with biosafety standards and minimizes any potential risks of gene escape to non-target flora.
To strengthen biosafety, the invention integrates post-harvest genetic containment assessments, which are designed to monitor gene stability across successive plant generations. By analyzing genetic stability over multiple growth cycles, these assessments validate that the introduced gene modifications remain localized within the target crop without spontaneous transfer to neighboring plants. This strategic focus on containment reinforces the genetic integrity of both the modified crops and the surrounding ecosystem, ensuring compliance with environmental regulatory frameworks that govern agricultural biotechnology. These safety evaluations emphasize the responsible deployment of gene-editing technology, reinforcing the invention's position as an ecologically sound solution that supports precision agriculture without compromising biodiversity.
Nanoparticle Decomposition Metrics in Varied Soil Conditions
Soil Type Nanoparticle Composition Decomposition Time (Days) Environmental Impact Post-Decomposition Observed Changes in Soil Microbiota
Loamy Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) 30 None, fully integrated into soil Increased beneficial microbial activity
Sandy Chitosan-based 35 No residue; slight increase in nitrogen content Neutral, no significant changes
Clay Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) 40 Fully degraded, minor phosphorus release Minor increase in microbial diversity
Silty Chitosan-based 45 Complete decomposition, no residue Positive shift in microbial balance


This table highlights the biodegradability and soil compatibility of the nanoparticle delivery system used in this invention. The nanoparticle matrix was tested across various soil types, demonstrating that the decomposition rates ranged from 30 to 45 days, depending on soil composition and texture. For instance, in loamy soils, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles fully decomposed within 30 days, leaving no residues and positively impacting the microbial ecosystem by supporting beneficial microbial activity. The decomposition metrics also suggest that in clay soils, the nanoparticles take slightly longer (around 40 days) to break down completely, releasing trace amounts of phosphorus that could benefit crop growth without altering the soil chemistry. This controlled and environment-specific decomposition showcases the adaptability of the nanoparticle system, ensuring that it seamlessly integrates into different soil ecosystems without disrupting their balance. By enhancing microbial diversity, especially in silty soils, the nanoparticles indirectly support soil health, which is integral to sustainable agricultural practices.

Impact of Gene Edits on Crop Physiological Pathways
Gene Target Edited Pathway Physiological Impact Agricultural Benefit Potential Limitations
DREB Drought response regulation Enhances root water retention and leaf transpiration efficiency Increased drought tolerance, reduces irrigation dependency May slow initial root growth in over-saturated soils
NAC Root architecture and depth Promotes deeper root growth and broader root networks Supports stable growth in low-water environments, reduces risk of soil erosion Risk of nutrient competition in nutrient-poor soils
BTI Pest defense and resistance Activates pest deterrent biochemical pathways Reduces reliance on pesticides, improves crop resilience May alter defense response timing in certain climates
LYC Nutrient biosynthesis for vitamin A Increases carotenoid accumulation Improves nutritional profile, enhances market value High carotenoid levels may affect taste profile in some crops

By focusing on specific genes such as DREB and NAC, the invention influences vital physiological pathways that directly affect the crop's resilience to environmental challenges. For example, the DREB gene edit boosts the plant's ability to retain water and optimize leaf transpiration, thus enhancing drought resistance and reducing the need for frequent irrigation. This trait is especially valuable in arid climates, although it may lead to slower root growth under conditions of excess moisture due to the plant's modified water retention mechanisms.
Similarly, the NAC gene edit promotes robust root architecture, encouraging deeper root growth that supports stability in drought-prone areas and helps prevent soil erosion. While this modification aids in maintaining productivity in water-limited regions, it may lead to nutrient competition in nutrient-poor soils due to the expansive root network. The BTI gene modification enhances the plant's natural pest deterrent mechanisms by activating specific biochemical pathways, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and contributing to the plant's resilience. However, the activation timing of these defense mechanisms might vary with climatic differences, which could affect pest resistance levels under fluctuating conditions.
Finally, targeting the LYC gene elevates carotenoid biosynthesis, particularly for vitamin A, thereby improving the crop's nutritional value and potentially increasing its market appeal. While this nutritional enhancement supports dietary health objectives, especially in regions prone to vitamin A deficiencies, elevated carotenoid levels might influence the taste profile of the crop, which could impact consumer preference in certain markets.
This invention's novel approach to genetic stability across successive growth cycles is central to its impact on sustainable agriculture. The theoretical underpinnings of this method emphasize adaptive resilience in crop genomics, enabling plants to withstand diverse environmental stressors through stable, high-fidelity gene edits. Each genetic modification is fine-tuned to support the plant's natural adaptive responses-such as drought tolerance and pest resistance-through a biologically aligned process that enhances physiological efficiency. The robust stability observed in the edited crops signifies the effectiveness of combining AI-driven gRNA optimization with precise nanoparticle delivery, which together ensure that only the intended genes are affected. The comprehensive selection of resilience and nutrient-related genes reflects an evidence-based approach that uses foundational genetic insights to achieve targeted agricultural outcomes, equipping crops with the capabilities needed for sustainable production under variable climate conditions.
The controlled, precision-based edits offered by this invention also contribute to nutritional fortification in crops, addressing vital health concerns such as micronutrient deficiencies. By focusing on enhancing biosynthetic pathways for essential nutrients, this invention aligns with both agricultural productivity and global health objectives, producing crops that fulfill dietary requirements without reliance on external fortification methods. The emphasis on genetic stability across cycles further amplifies the potential for these traits to be integrated into agricultural systems on a larger scale, thus supporting food security initiatives that prioritize nutritional quality alongside crop resilience. This stability and nutrient enrichment potential make the invention a versatile and impactful tool for addressing multifaceted challenges in agriculture.
By combining cutting-edge genomic editing technology with a novel, ecologically responsible delivery mechanism and AI-driven precision tools, this invention represents a significant advancement in the field of precision agriculture. The comprehensive methodology employed in this research-spanning gene selection, machine learning for gRNA optimization, innovative nanoparticle design, and rigorous field testing-demonstrates not only the feasibility of the technology but also its readiness for large-scale agricultural deployment. As global agricultural systems continue to face challenges posed by climate change and population growth, this invention provides a viable path forward, enabling the production of resilient, high-yield, and nutritionally fortified crops that can meet the food security needs of the future in a sustainable and ecologically responsible manner.
, C , Claims:Claim 1: A biodegradable nanoparticle delivery system comprising plant-compatible polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) or chitosan, wherein the nanoparticles are functionalized with ligands specific to plant cell receptors (e.g., lectin for mesophyll cells, glycoprotein for root cells) to enable targeted delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 complexes to specified plant cell types, facilitating precise gene editing with minimal environmental impact and achieving at least 88% delivery efficiency across plant tissues. The system degrades completely within 30 to 45 days post-application, ensuring eco-friendly application in agricultural environments.
Claim 2: A method for optimizing guide RNA (gRNA) design using a Deep Neural Network model, termed DeepCRISPR-Net, which is trained on a comprehensive dataset of crop genomes to predict highly precise gRNA sequences tailored to the genetic profile of target crops. The model achieves an accuracy of at least 98.7% in targeting gene loci while reducing off-target effects by 85% compared to traditional gRNA design methods, facilitating high-fidelity gene editing in a wide range of crop species.
Claim 3: A CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic editing method targeting the DREB and NAC genes to enhance drought tolerance in crops, wherein the edits result in at least a 20% increase in drought resistance and a 15% improvement in water absorption. The targeted gene edits promote adaptive physiological responses to drought, including optimized root development and water retention capabilities, with stable expression across multiple growth cycles.
Claim 4: Genomic Editing Method for Pest Resistance in Agricultural Crops
A genomic editing method employing CRISPR/Cas9 to modify the BTI gene, specifically enhancing pest resistance in crops by achieving a 30% reduction in pest incidents. The edits promote pest resilience at the genetic level, reducing the need for chemical pesticides, and providing a sustainable solution to pest management in large-scale crop production.
Claim 5: Method for Enhancing Nutritional Content in Crops through CRISPR/Cas9 Editing
A method of enhancing the nutritional profile of crops via CRISPR/Cas9 editing of the LYC gene, which is associated with nutrient synthesis pathways. This editing process results in at least a 25% increase in vitamin A content within the edible plant tissues, providing a biofortified crop option for addressing micronutrient deficiencies in populations relying on these staples.
Claim 6: An environmentally safe approach to agricultural gene editing, whereby CRISPR-edited crops undergo biosafety assessments and post-harvest environmental impact studies to confirm low environmental mobility of edited genes. The system employs fully biodegradable nanoparticle delivery mechanisms that decompose within 45 days, preventing genetic flow to native flora and ensuring containment of modifications within cultivated crops only.
Claim 7: Longitudinal Stability of CRISPR-Edited Crops for Sustainable Agricultural Deployment. A method of ensuring the longitudinal stability of CRISPR/Cas9-edited crops, wherein genetic modifications demonstrate stable expression across at least three growth cycles with consistent drought tolerance, pest resistance, and nutrient retention rates. This stability supports the sustainable deployment of edited crops by guaranteeing persistent and reliable trait performance over successive planting cycles.
Claim 8: Cost-Efficient Gene Editing System for Scalable Precision Agriculture
A cost-efficient system for crop gene editing that integrates AI-driven gRNA optimization, nanoparticle-based CRISPR/Cas9 delivery, and field-proven performance, reducing the need for high concentrations of CRISPR complexes and lowering application costs by 25% compared to traditional methods. The system's scalability across varied crop types and environments enables widespread adoption for improving crop resilience, yield, and nutritional value.

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