What is this publication about?

This scientific article establishes a highly efficient protocol to edit the genome of plants. Specifically, it looks at how three different genes (encoding for beta-hexosaminidases) can be deleted that are detrimental to the engineering of specific worm-like glycosylation in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana). This study is performed in collaboration with Hudson River Biotechnology in Wageningen, The Netherlands.

This study shows successful editing of beta-hexosaminidases genes in Nicotiana benthamiana, which improved the synthesis of a common glycan structure found in the parasite Schistosoma mansoni. 

Why is this important?

Gene editing protocols are commonly used in the field of plant biotechnology, but often consume a lot of time (up to years). In addition, these protocols are inefficient in editing multiple genes in parallel, because many plant species (including tobacco) have duplicated genomes. Our protocol was used to edit 12 beta-hexosaminidases gene copies in parallel, and mutant plants were regenerated from single cells within 4-5 months. This drastically speeds up the time required to perform targeted gene editing in plants.

How can this make a difference?

Optimisation of the genetic background of N. benthamiana plants allows for optimal synthesis of tailor-made glycan structures on recombinant vaccines. This plant-based expression platform will allow us to unravel the role of glycans in vaccine efficacy and could be used for the production of affordable anti-parasite vaccines in the future.