序列特异核酸酶研究的重大突破，极大促进了基因组定向编辑技术在作物育种中应用的可行性。本研究拟通过国内外在植物基因组定向编辑研究领域具有领先地位的两个实验室的紧密合作，在重要农作物水稻和小麦上开拓遗传性状改良育种新方法，加速推动基因组定向编辑技术在农业生产中的应用。本课题主要进行三方面的研究：1.优化CRISPR/Cas9系统、利用双生病毒（Germinivirus）提高同源重组效率等的研究，建立高效水稻、小麦基因组定向编辑技术体系。2.探索建立在水稻和小麦中实现无转基因痕迹的，生物安全基因组编辑技术，为水稻和小麦提供新的育种思路和关键技术。3.利用基因组定向编辑育种技术，创制生物安全的抗除草剂水稻和乳糜泻病人专用小麦优良新品种。本研究将深化植物基因组定向编辑技术，为水稻和小麦新品种的创制提供一个高效的，安全的手段和保障。

Recent advances in genome engineering make it possible to precisely alter DNA sequences in living cells, providing unprecedented control over a plant’s genetic material. Potential future crops derived through genome engineering include those that better withstand pests, that have enhanced nutritional value, and that are able to grow on marginal lands. In many instances, crops with such traits will be created by altering only a few nucleotides among the billions that comprise plant genomes. In this project, we will optimize the CRISPR/Cas9 system by testing Cas9 nickases for their ability to stimulate homologous recombination and perhaps overcome the off-target effects associated with the current CRISPR/Cas9 double-stranded nucleases. Protocols will also be developed to modify multiple genes simultaneously. We will develop germiniviruses –plant DNA viruses – as vectors for gene targeting in monocot. Finally, we will create new genetic variation, i.e. glyphosate resistant rice and gluten-free wheat, through genome editing strategies. We will further assess the possibilities for creating other novel crop varieties with sequence-specific nucleases. This study will provide insights into the ability to control the type of genetic variation introduced into crop plants and the potentials to deploy new biotechnologies for crop improvement.