Abstract
Background: The rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome has increased interest in dietary strategies that improve glycemic control. Cereal grains are major sources of dietary carbohydrates, but many commonly consumed cereals contain high levels of rapidly digestible starch.
Objective: This review examines the potential of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated biofortification to enhance resistant starch content in cereal grains and discusses its possible implications for glycemic control and metabolic health.
Methods: A thematic review of recent studies published between 2015 and 2026 was conducted, focusing on CRISPR/Cas9 applications in cereal crops, starch biosynthesis pathways, starch branching enzyme targets, and evidence linking resistant starch intake with metabolic outcomes.
Results: Current evidence suggests that targeting starch branching enzymes, particularly SBEIIa and SBEIIb, can increase amylose content and improve resistant starch accumulation in cereal grains. Resistant starch-enriched diets may reduce postprandial glycemic response, support insulin sensitivity, and promote beneficial gut microbial fermentation. However, technical challenges, agronomic trade-offs, regulatory uncertainty, and limited clinical validation remain important barriers to large-scale application.
Conclusion: CRISPR-mediated enhancement of resistant starch in cereal grains represents a promising approach for developing functional foods with potential metabolic benefits. Further field trials, safety assessments, and human clinical studies are required before these crops can be widely recommended for public health use.