CRISPR/Cas-Based Genome Editing for Soybean Improvement

Conventional mutagens (physical, chemical, and biological) are repeatedly applied to create genetic variations. However, the chances of obtaining the desired mutation are considerably low. Although genome editing platforms like meganuclease, zinc-finger nucleases, and transcription activator-like effector nucleases are available; they have limited use due to their complexity and lack of possibility for multiplexing. So, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) is the commonly used genome editing system to create site-specific modifications. It is a breakthrough in biological science that can aid in both the functional analysis of genes and the generation of desirable genotypes without the use of foreign DNA. Soybean is an important legume on a global scale and this technology is extensively employed for its improvement. This chapter outlines over 50 articles that used CRISPR/Cas technology to address diverse soybean traits like oil and protein content, abiotic and biotic stresses, male sterility, herbicide tolerance, and nutritional quality to elucidate its current state and prospective uses.