Next-Generation CRISPR Biotechnology for Pakistan: AI-Driven, Climate-Resilient Super Crops and the Future of Food Security: Next-Generation CRISPR Biotechnology for Pakistan: AI-Driven Super Crops

Sadaf Saeed Ullah; Rabia Iqbal; Ayesha Ghafoor; Syeda Amna Batool; Tehmina Bashir; Adnan Mehmood

doi:10.54393/fbt.v5i3.189

Authors

Sadaf Saeed Ullah Department of Botany, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
Rabia Iqbal Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat
Ayesha Ghafoor Department of Botany, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
Syeda Amna Batool Department of Botany, University of Narowal, Narowal, Pakistan
Tehmina Bashir Department of Botany, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
Adnan Mehmood Department of Microbiology, Gulab Devi Educational Complex, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/fbt.v5i3.189

Keywords:

CRISPR, Crop Improvement, Climate Resilience, Gene Editing, Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to Pakistan’s agriculture, with projections indicating 10–25% yield losses in staple crops by 2050. Frequent floods, prolonged droughts, and pest infestations have already reduced wheat and rice production by up to 30%, exposing the limitations of traditional breeding and genetically modified crops. CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, when combined with artificial intelligence (AI), offers a faster and more precise route to developing climate-resilient varieties suited to Pakistan’s diverse agroecosystems. A review of recent studies highlights key advances, including AI-assisted sgRNA design, which enhances editing efficiency by 30–50%, and CRISPR-modified wheat and rice lines that show 20–30% improved stress tolerance. Yet, barriers such as complex polyploid genomes, limited genomic resources, and outdated biosafety policies hinder progress. Addressing these challenges through policy reform, capacity-building, and technology integration could transform Pakistan’s agriculture, aligning directly with Sustainable Development Goals on Zero Hunger and Climate Action.

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