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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.04.15.718787

Successful gene editing in tetraploid alfalfa using the open-source, AI-derived OpenCRISPR-1

Alam, S.·Subedi, U.·Burton Hughes, K.·Chen, G. G.·Da Ros, L.·Bilichak, A.·Singer, S.
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Abstract

While CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing technologies have the potential to greatly advance crop breeding endeavours, intellectual property-related challenges can hinder the ability to move such varieties to the market. Recently, an open-access Cas enzyme derived from large language models (OpenCRISPR-1) was developed and shown to function effectively in human cells. In this study, we demonstrate the successful use of this nuclease in a polyploid plant species (Medicago sativa), with mono- or bi-allelic editing observed in 30% of genotypes bearing OpenCRISPR-1. These findings indicate that OpenCRISPR-1 holds promise to expand the use of gene editing technology in the breeding of polyploid crops.

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Alam, S., Subedi, U., Burton Hughes, K., Chen, G. G., Da Ros, L., Bilichak, A., Singer, S.. 2026-04-17. Successful gene editing in tetraploid alfalfa using the open-source, AI-derived OpenCRISPR-1. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.04.15.718787

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