Challenges and opportunities of the CRISPR/Cas9 system as an efficient genome editing tool in the development of medicinal plants: An updated mini- review

CRISPR/Cas9 technology has emerged in recent years as a powerful tool for precise genome editing in a wide range of organisms. The procedure, which offers high productivity, simplicity of design, and affordability as its main advantages, has been extensively utilized in different life science disciplines. In the field of medicinal plants, CRISPR/Cas9 provides a unique opportunity to improve important traits such as increased production of secondary metabolites, enhanced resistance to environmental stresses and diseases, and improved quality of effective compounds. In this article, we first review medicinal plants and their applications, then discuss the mechanism of action of CRISPR/Cas9 and its advantages over other genome editing methods. We also discuss the practical applications of this system in the field of breeding and development of medicinal plants, and the technical, regulatory, and ethical challenges associated with the use of CRISPR/Cas9-edited plants. Finally, we intend to deliberate on the possibilities of how the technology could help in the development of herbal medicines.