Xiaojing Yang , Han Liu

Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol. 16, No. 4   doi: 10.5376/mgg.2025.16.0020
Received: 23 Jun., 2025    Accepted: 10 Aug., 2025    Published: 28 Aug., 2025

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Yang X.J., and Liu H., 2025, Application of base editing in maize for herbicide resistance improvement, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 16(4): 229-238 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2025.16.0020)

 

Herbicide resistance is a critical challenge in maize (Zea mays L.) production, often leading to yield loss and increased production costs. In this study, we explored the application of base editing technology as a precise genome modification approach to improve herbicide resistance in maize. We first reviewed the principles of cytosine and adenine base editors, highlighting their ability to induce targeted point mutations without double-strand breaks and their advantages over traditional CRISPR-Cas9 systems. Target genes associated with herbicide action pathways, such as acetolactate synthase (ALS) and 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS), were identified, and strategies for multiplex editing to broaden resistance profiles were discussed. We proposed application strategies, including the selection of monocot-compatible editor variants, optimization of delivery methods, and validation via molecular and phenotypic assays. A case study on ALS gene base editing demonstrated successful point mutation introduction, resulting in enhanced herbicide resistance and stable agronomic performance. Our findings underscore the potential of base editing to deliver precision, shorter breeding cycles, and the ability to stack multiple resistance traits, while addressing challenges such as off-target effects and regulatory considerations. This work lays the foundation for integrating base editing with advanced breeding tools to promote sustainable maize production and reduce chemical herbicide dependence.

Base editing; Maize; Herbicide resistance; ALS gene; Genome modification