Plant genomes are characterized by large and complex gene families that often result in
similar and partially overlapping functions. This genetic redundancy severely hampers …

Mutations play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory and outcomes of a species evolution
and domestication. Maize (Zea mays) has been a major staple crop and model for genetic …

SUMMARY CRISPR/Cas9 is currently the most powerful tool to generate mutations in plant
genomes and more efficient tools are needed as the scale of experiments increases. In the …

The recent growth in global warming, soil contamination, and climate instability have widely
disturbed ecosystems, and will have a significant negative impact on the growth of plants …

Crop improvement has been a long-standing focus of agricultural research, aiming to
enhance nutritional richness, aroma, visual appeal, and yield to meet the growing global …

CRISPR/Cas is a gene-editing technique that allows for the precise and specific introduction
of a mutation into a DNA sequence. The outcome of a mutation on encoded protein depends …

As I present this thesis, I am deeply grateful to those who have supported and guided me
throughout this journey. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my promotors, Prof …