CRISPR-mediated genome editing for developing durable and broad-spectrum disease resistance in wheat

Abstract Wheat production is increasingly threatened by fungal diseases that reduce yield, grain quality, and global food security. Conventional breeding has improved disease resistance but remains constrained by long breeding cycles, polyploid genome complexity, and the continual emergence of new pathogen races. CRISPR-mediated genome editing has emerged as a powerful complementary approach for developing durable and broad-spectrum disease resistance through precise modification of resistance (R) genes, susceptibility (S) genes, and immune regulatory pathways. This review critically synthesizes recent advances in CRISPR applications for major wheat fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, rusts, Fusarium head blight, and wheat blast. Emerging genome-editing technologies, such as multiplex editing, base editing, and prime editing, are discussed alongside their applications and current limitations in wheat. The review further examines biological, technical, and regulatory challenges affecting practical deployment and highlights future opportunities for integrating genome editing with modern breeding to accelerate the development of climate-resilient, disease-resistant wheat cultivars for sustainable agriculture.