Wiley recognizes the reviewed article on banana improvement as a top-cited study

23 April 2025

A review paper on the genetic improvement of bananas has been selected as one of Wiley's most cited papers, highlighting its critical role in improving one of the world's most important staple crops.

Published in The Plant Genome, the research probes into CRISPR/Cas genome editing techniques that could impact banana breeding, making the crop more resilient to devastating diseases. Led by a team of scientists from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the widely referenced paper "Precision Genetics Tools for Genetic Improvement of Banana" addresses long-standing challenges in banana production and offers a precise, efficient, and sustainable solution for farmers worldwide.

The study explores genome editing techniques, particularly using CRISPR/Cas technology to develop disease-resistant banana varieties. Given the devastating threats posed by Banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW), Fusarium Wilt, and viral diseases, their work highlights the power of precision breeding in tackling these challenges. This paper highlights the limitations of conventional breeding methods and presents genetic engineering as a fast-track solution to safeguarding banana production, a staple crop for over 400 million people globally.

Reflecting on the recognition, the IITA Eastern Africa Hub Director and Biotechnology Program Lead, Dr Tripathi, said, " Genome editing offers a revolutionary approach to improving bananas, providing a precise, efficient, and sustainable solution to tackle major production challenges. This recognition affirms the impact of our research in shaping the future of banana biotechnology."

This achievement further reinforces IITA's leadership in agricultural research. IITA continues to advance genome editing in other staple crops, ensuring food security and economic stability for smallholder farmers across Africa.

To read the full study, click here: Precision genetics tools for genetic improvement of banana.

Contributed by Rose Harriet Okech