Transporter editing in cassava indicates local production of cyanogenic glucosides in, and export from, cassava roots.

This article discusses the importance of cassava as a staple crop, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and the issue of cyanogenic glucosides (CGs) accumulating in cassava roots, which can be toxic to humans if not properly processed. Researchers have successfully used gene editing to reduce CG levels in cassava, but there is evidence that this may lead to increased herbivory and potentially lower yields. The article also explores the transport of CGs in cassava, suggesting that they are synthesized in the roots rather than transported from the shoot apex. The findings have implications for improving the safety of cassava and understanding the movement of CGs within the plant. [Extracted from the article]