Genome Editing and Genetic Transformation in Woody Plants: Methodological Innovations and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Genome editing and genetic transformation technologies are revolutionizing woody plant research and breeding by enabling precise, rapid, and transgene-free improvement of forest, fruit, and ornamental species. Recent advances in CRISPR/Cas systems, including base editing, prime editing, and multiplex genome engineering, have expanded the capacity to modify complex traits associated with growth, stress tolerance, wood quality, disease resistance, and climate resilience in long-generation perennial species. At the same time, methodological innovations such as morphogenic regulators, de novo meristem induction, nanoparticle- and viral-mediated delivery, in planta transformation, and mobile RNA-based editing are helping overcome major bottlenecks in regeneration efficiency and genotype dependence that have historically limited transformation in woody plants. Emerging approaches also emphasize transgene-free and precision breeding strategies to facilitate regulatory acceptance and practical deployment. This Research Topic welcomes original research, reviews, and perspectives addressing technological innovations, optimization of transformation and editing systems, functional genomics, and applications of genome engineering in woody species. Collectively, these studies will advance sustainable forestry, horticulture, and bio-based agriculture under changing environmental conditions.

Dr. Gen Li
Dr. Tao Jiang
Topic Editors