Transformation & CRISPR Knockout of the CBDAS Gene in Type III Cannabis sativa L. - Michael Petersen

Tags: Cannabis Genetics, Cannabis Breeding, CBDAS, gRNA, Cannabis Industry, Hemp, Genome Sequencing, Powdery Mildew, Hop Latent Viroid Michael Petersen, presents "Transformation and CRISPR Knockout of the CBDAS Gene in Type III Cannabis sativa L." at CannMed 24. Meristem-based, genotype independent transformation systems have been established at the Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center (WCIC) for soybean (Glycine max L.), cow pea (Vigna unguiculata L.), dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) among others. DNA delivery in these systems is primarily via Agrobacterium tumefaciens, however a biolistics approach has also been demonstrated. Germline transformation with transmission of transgenes to T1 progeny have been confirmed empirically via RFP imaging, RUBY expression, GUS staining of T1 progeny and further validated via PCR assays. We have modified these methods to successfully engineer and edit Cannabis sativa, an otherwise recalcitrant species. Hundreds of independent T0 events have been produced along with their T1 progeny. Multiple genotypes have been engineered using this process at the WCIC and the methodology, results, and future direction will be discussed. Data will focus on a CRISPR knockout of the CBDAS gene in a Type III cannabis plant and its effects on chemotype, collaborations with key industry partners, and a path for potential new clients to use our technology to enable gene editing and engineering to alter traits of interest to them. Learn More about CannMed: cannmedevents.com/