AI‐Driven Plant Epigenome Engineering for Developing Resilient Crops

The increase in global climate change has led to the need to develop plant varieties resistant to environmental stress factors. In this context, targeted modifications to be made in the epigenome offer promising, rapid solutions. Such methods allow the regulation of gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. At this point, artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential in terms of processing big data and recognizing certain patterns, and creating modification targets with plant epigenomics data. This chapter addresses the role of AI in deciphering epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling. With the rapid and high-accuracy explanation of complex datasets related to these mechanisms, new targets can be identified for the development of stress-resistant plant varieties. AI-based models can combine multiomics data to predict the effect of epigenetic marks on phenotype. This creates an opportunity for a combined interpretation of the data obtained to date on the molecular basis of plant stress tolerance. Furthermore, AI-enabled targeting systems combined with gene-editing technologies practically enable targeted interventions at the epigenomic level. These developments significantly accelerate the design and optimization of plant varieties adapted to abiotic stress conditions such as drought, salinity, and heat. This chapter highlights the transformative potential of AI in plant epigenome engineering, highlighting its critical role in maintaining agricultural sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions and shaping the next generation of breeding strategies.