Gene editing enhances the value and impact of genebanks, but not without challenges

Abstract Gene editing (GE) technologies are making significant advances and will provide powerful tools for crop improvement through the creation of new and potentially useful genetic variation. Rather than diminishing the value of assembled national and international plant genebanks, we expect that GE will increase the importance of current and future collections in multiple ways. First, genebanks will be critical sources of germplasm serving as molecular and phenotypic templates for GE targets and their associated trait modifications. Second, phenotypic and genetic information currently held in genebanks will serve as a strategic guides for GE breeding efforts by improving our understanding of the phenotypic range of useful variation in crops and its genetic basis. Third, if deemed appropriate, genebanks may be responsible for conservation of these new sources of genetic diversity. In the foreseeable future, GE and crop conservation present positive synergies to increase the richness of, and accessibility to, variation of crop plants and their wild and weedy relatives to support breeding in changing environments. As with any new technology implemented in crop conservation efforts, the inevitable challenges for genebanks must be addressed. In this opinion piece, we highlight recognized opportunities of GE and their associated consequences on genebank policies and operations.