Breeding herbicide-resistant rice using CRISPR-Cas gene editing and other technologies

The emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds in crop fields and the extensive use of herbicides have led to a decrease in rice (Oryza sativa) yields and an increase in production costs. To address these challenges, researchers have focused on the discovery of new germplasm resources with herbicide resistance. The most promising candidate genes have been functionally studied and applied in rice breeding. Here, we review recent progress in the breeding of herbicide-resistant rice. We provide examples of various techniques used to breed herbicide-resistant rice, such as physical and chemical mutagenesis, genetic transformation, and CRISPR-Cas-mediated gene editing. We highlight factors involved in the breeding of herbicide-resistant rice, including target genes, rice varieties, degrees of herbicide resistance, and research tools. Finally, we suggest methods for breeding herbicide-resistant rice that could potentially be used for weed management in direct-seeding farm systems.