CRISPART · A highly efficient CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing method for difficult to transform arthropods

During the ERC consolidator grant POLYADAPT, an efficient gene editing system was discovered which allows to genetically transform the spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, a main crop pest. This species belongs to the chelicerates, the second largest group of arthropods including mites, ticks and spiders, that are notoriously difficult to transform. Our invention not only accomplished for the first time gene knock-out in mites, but also allows precise gene editing via knock-in with high efficiency. The method results in a 20-fold increase of transformation efficiency. In the PoC CRISPART, we will demonstrate the efficacy of the invention on a wide range of difficult to transform arthropods and aim to better understand the mode of action of the observed synergy. We will further investigate the optimal validation trajectory of the invention, considering a gene editing service and investigate commercial and financial feasibility of the optimal path.