CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing of four genes in tilapia for establishing founder populations improved for a more sustainable productivity

• Grant number: 23/10601-3
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: January 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Animal Husbandry - Genetics and Improvement of Domestic Animals
• Agreement: SEBRAE-SP
• Principal Investigator: Julio Mateo Flórez Murillo
• Grantee: Julio Mateo Flórez Murillo
• Company: 52.800.297 Julio Mateo Florez Murillo
• CNAE: Aqüicultura em água doce
• City: Birigüi
• Associated researchers: Tad Steward Sonstegard

Abstract

This project aims to establish founder populations of gene-edited tilapias that will serve as progenitors of unique genetic lineages. Through targeted editing of four key genes, our proposal seeks to increase the productivity and resilience of these tilapias while reducing the use of natural resources. The first targeted gene will be disrupted to enhance immunity and growth rate, making the tilapias more resistant to certain pathogens and allowing for faster growth. Eliminating the function of the second gene aims to increase tolerance to hypoxia, enabling the tilapias to survive in low-oxygen environments, thereby enhancing the resilience of tilapia production. The disruption of the third gene aims to produce fast-growing red tilapias, enhancing visual appeal and meeting market preferences. Lastly, editing the fourth gene aims to improve meat quality by increasing postmortem IMP levels and, consequently, enhancing umami flavor after refrigeration, making the tilapia more appealing to consumers. This proposed research seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of introducing alleles through gene editing in these four genes, creating founder populations of edited tilapias that will transmit economically important traits to their offspring. The innovative approach of this project and its pioneering potential underscore the relevance and impact of this research in the aquaculture sector. (AU)