In this half-day symposium at BOKU we will:
1) explain and describe the systems around gene editing in an understandable way;
2) showcase some examples of gene editing for genomic research and crop improvement;
3) discuss some of the economic and political aspects; and
4) discuss with you your expectations, concerns, and questions.
Keynote speaker:
Prof. Steven Runo from the Kenyatta University Nairobi, Kenya
Leveraging genome editing to enhance food security in Africa.
Prof. Steven Runo is working on understanding host-parasite interaction between Striga hermonthica (witchweed) and its host plants. Striga is a noxious parasitic weed that causes major crop losses, particularly in Africa and poses a threat to food security and the livelihoods of smallholder farmer. Steve Runo has identified genes in wild millet that are responsible for resistance to Striga and is using his knowledge to equip cultivated millet varieties with Striga resistance. Gene editing is one approach used for this purpose: one of many examples in which this principle can contribute to increasing yields and food security.
There will also be a livestream of the symposium on YouTube: New Genomic Technologies - A Versatile Toolbox for Crop and Livestock Improvement
