Context:
Indian scientists have developed an indigenous genome editing (GE) technology based on TnpB proteins, offering a cost-effective and IP-light alternative to CRISPR-Cas systems. Patented by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), this innovation is expected to significantly lower the cost of commercial GE crop breeding, enhance technological sovereignty, and support small and marginal farmers, while strengthening India’s bioeconomy and agri-innovation ecosystem.
Key Highlights:
Development of Desi Gene Editing Technology
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Indian scientists have developed a TnpB-based genome editing platform as an alternative to CRISPR-Cas.
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ICAR received the patent for this technology on September 15, 2025.
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The innovation enables precise editing of native plant genes without introducing foreign DNA.
Why TnpB Matters
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TnpB proteins are significantly smaller:
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400–500 amino acids
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Compared to Cas9 (1,000–1,400 aa) and Cas12a (~1,300 aa)
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Smaller size makes them:
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Easier to deliver into plant cells
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More suitable for field-level and commercial applications
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GE vs GM Crops
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Genome Editing (GE):
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Modifies naturally existing genes
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No foreign gene insertion
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Genetic Modification (GM):
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Introduces foreign genes
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GE crops face less regulatory and public resistance.
Economic and IP Significance
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CRISPR-Cas technologies are largely controlled by:
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Broad Institute
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Corteva Agriscience
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Licensing fees and IP restrictions:
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Increase costs
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Limit commercial cultivation
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TnpB-based system offers IP freedom and affordability.
Policy and Crop Development Linkages
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In May 2025, ICAR released two GE rice varieties.
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ICAR is negotiating with CRISPR patent holders for license fee waivers for small farmers.
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Indigenous technology reduces dependency on foreign IP negotiations.
Relevant Prelims Points:
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Issue: High cost and IP barriers in commercial genome-edited crops.
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Technology Developed:
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TnpB-based genome editing system
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Institution Involved:
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ICAR
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Key Features:
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Smaller protein size
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Precise DNA editing
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No foreign gene insertion
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Benefits:
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Cheaper GE crop development
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Farmer-friendly innovation
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Boost to agri-biotech sector
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Challenges:
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Scaling up field trials
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Regulatory clarity
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Impact:
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Supports food security and farm incomes
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Relevant Mains Points:
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Key Concepts Explained:
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Genome Editing (GE): Precise modification of an organism’s DNA
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CRISPR-Cas: Widely used gene editing system with IP constraints
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Intellectual Property (IP): Legal rights affecting technology access
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Science & Technology Dimension:
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Indigenous biotech innovation
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Simplified gene delivery mechanisms
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Economic and Governance Perspective:
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Reduces technology import dependence
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Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in agri-biotech
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Agriculture Linkages:
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Climate-resilient crops
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Yield and nutrition enhancement
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Way Forward:
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Fast-track regulatory approvals for GE crops
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Expand public-sector R&D in biotech
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Promote farmer-centric deployment
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Strengthen biosafety and communication frameworks
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UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
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GS 3 (Science & Technology): Genome editing, biotech innovation
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GS 3 (Economy): Agri-biotech, IP rights, cost reduction
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GS 3 (Prelims): GE vs GM, CRISPR, ICAR