International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics
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Genetic structure and ecological niche space of lentil’s closest wild relative, Lens orientalis (Boiss.) Schmalh.
Get PDFCrops arose from wild ancestors and to understand their domestication it is essential to compare the cultivated species with their crop wild relatives. These represent an important source of further crop improvement, in particular in relation to climate change. Although there are about 58,000 Lens accessions held in genebanks, only 1% are wild.
We examined the geographic distribution and genetic diversity of the lentil's immediate progenitor L. orientalis. We used Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS) to identify and characterize differentiation among accessions held at germplasm collections. We then determined whether genetically distinct clusters of accessions had been collected from climatically distinct locations.
Of the 195 genotyped accessions, 124 were genuine L. orientalis with four identified genetic groups. Although an environmental distance matrix was significantly correlated with geographic distance in a Mantel test, the four identified genetic clusters were not found to occupy significantly different environmental space. Maxent modelling gave a distinct predicted distribution pattern centred in the Fertile Crescent, with intermediate probabilities of occurrence in parts of Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Morocco, and the south of the Iberian Peninsula with NW Africa. Future projections did not show any dramatic alterations in the distribution according to the climate change scenarios tested.
We have found considerable diversity in L. orientalis, some of which track climatic variability. The results of the study showed the genetic diversity of wild lentil and indicate the importance of ongoing collections and in situ conservation for our future capacity to harness the genetic variation of the lentil progenitor
Genetic diversity analysis of Azerbaijani bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes with simple sequence repeat markers linked to drought tolerance
No full textWater stress causes large agricultural losses worldwide and deteriorates its quality. Drought tolerance in plants is a complex trait governed by multigenes and infleunce of various environmental factors affecting the expression of these genes. Thus this complexity necessitates the application of new molecular methods to identify and develop drought tolerant genotypes. The present study was conducted to investigate the genetic diversity of 45 Azerbaijani wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) core collection genotypes utilizing simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers associated with drought tolerance. Our results showed that nine primers out of twelve showed polymorphism. Maximum number of alleles were detected for WMC177 marker (on chromosome 2A), WMC 264 (on chromosome 3A) and WMC219 (on chromosome 4A) with 5, 5 and 4 alleles, respectively. The lowest alleles were determined for WMC219 marker (chromosome 4A) with only one allele. The total number of the detected alleles on A and D genome was 18 and 11 respectively. The maximum number of unique bands (3) was scored with pimer WMC 177. Seven genotypes (cv Gobustan, and Gizil bugda, landrace 6262, and research materials 6170, 6286, 6296 and 6293) possessed unique bands. Based on polymorphism analysis of the wheat genotypes by SSR markers, drought tolerant genotypes for utilization in breeding programs were selected
Gene editing tool kit in millets: present status and future directions
Get PDFMillets, the sixth most-grown group of crops in the drylands, support the livelihood of many small-holder farmers in the region. Being one of the most nutritious groups of crops, their production has been increasing since the last decade to meet the demands of the world’s ever-increasing population. Since its discovery, CRISPR/Cas-mediated gene editing technology has revolutionized trait improvement in numerous crops by enabling targeted insertions and deletions at specific gene sequences. With advancements like base editing and prime editing, which offer precise modifications at the nucleotide level, this technology holds great promise for enhancing millets by targeting genes responsible for key traits. The updated sequence information in the public domain makes it possible to modify certain genic regions using the CRISPR/Cas-mediated gene editing technology to develop millet crops with improved agronomical properties. The review explores each component of the editing toolbox in millets, including the gRNA designing tools, types of Cas nucleases, and promoters to be considered for enhanced and efficient gene editing in millets. We have discussed fundamental information available to successfully employ CRISPR/Cas-mediated gene editing in millets, such as the availability of genomic information and plant transformation methods. Finally, we have highlighted the limitations of employing this novel technology in millet crops by providing future
directions and immediate candidate genes that could be targeted to improve various traits in millet crops
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Strigolactone (SL) Pathway and Associated Genes in Sorghum
Get PDFStrigolactones (SLs) are a novel class of plant hormones that play critical roles in reg-ulating developmental processes and stress tolerance. Even though the SL-related genes have been identified and characterized in model plants such as Arabidopsis and rice, characteri-zation of SL-related genes in crop plants, partic-ularly dry land crops like sorghum (Sorghum bi-color), have yet to be fully explored. In this study, the SL-pathway and associated genes and their expression patterns under abiotic stress were systematically identified and characterized in the sorghum. This study identified the SL path-way and associated genes, including biosyn-thesis (D27, CCD7, CCD8, MAX1 and LBO) and signaling (D14, MAX2, D53). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all SL-related genes are highly conserved among plant species. Further-more, the expression analysis showed that most SL-related genes are involved in cold, drought and simulated drought/ABA stress response. These findings provide valuable information for further investigation and functional characteri-zation of SL-biosynthetic and signaling genes in response to abiotic stresses in sorghum
Comparative Metabolomics to Unravel the Biochemical Mechanism Associated with Rancidity in Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)
Get PDFDespite being a highly nutritious and resilient cereal, pearl millet is not popular among consumers and food industries due to the short shelf-life of flour attributed to rapid rancidity development. The biochemical mechanism underlying rancidity, a complex and quantitative trait, needs to be better understood. The present study aims to elucidate the differential accumulation of metabolites in pearl millet that impact the rancidity process. Metabolite profiling was conducted on ten pearl millet genotypes with varying levels of rancidity—comprising high, low, and medium rancid genotypes—utilizing liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) at different accelerated ageing conditions. Through non-targeted metabolomic analysis, crucial metabolites associated with rancidity were identified across various biochemical pathways, including fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, glycerol lipids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. Notably, metabolites such as fatty aldehydes, fatty alcohols, fatty esters, fatty acyls, fatty esters, and fatty amides were significantly elevated in high rancid genotypes, indicating their involvement in the rancidity process. These fatty acids-related metabolites further break down into saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Four key fatty acids—stearic, palmitic, linoleic and linolenic acid—were quantified in the ten pearl millet genotypes, confirming their role in rancidity development. This investigation promises novel insights into utilizing metabolomics to understand the biochemical processes and facilitate precision breeding for developing low-rancidity pearl millet lines
Underutilized edible fruit species of the Indo-Gangetic Plains: A systematic review for food security and land degradation neutrality
Get PDFMany underutilized edible fruit species (UEFS) are found in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP), which support food security (FS) for many other dependent communities as well as the indigenous people. Unfortunately, there is little study and fragmented information available about these naturally edible products. The UEFS of the IGP was the subject of a systematic review utilizing the PRISMA Protocol, which produced implications for FS and land degradation neutrality (LDN). This review aims to survey, summarize, and annotate the published information about the angiosperms native and naturalized UEFS of IGP to identify and make use of this species, particularly for the sustainable development of this region. A systematic review confirmed that 371 species of UEFS, of which 62 species were Threatened and Near Threatened (TNT)-UEFS. Among the TNT-UEFS, 41 species were threatened, while 21 species were NT. The threatened species were further categorized as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List in the IGP as Vulnerable (21 species), Endangered (16 species), and Critically Endangered (4 species). This systematic review suggests integration of the native and naturalized UEFS in afforestation and reforestation programmes to aid in various ecosystem services. Calamus inermis, Corypha taliera, Licuala peltata, and Saurauia punduana are examples of multipurpose species that require immediate sustainable conservation and cultivation initiatives to save them from extinction in the near future. Multipurpose species like Aegle marmelos, Buchanania lanzan, Manilkara hexandra, Syzygium cuminii, Tamarindus indica, etc. are immensely constructive and climate-smart by surviving in harsh agro-climatic conditions and have great potential for establishment on marginal and wastelands throughout the IGP region. These resilient fruit species enhance biodiversity, ecosystems, and landscapes. As a result, the study will offer baseline data for the next investigations and be helpful to policymakers in creating sustainable and scientific policies for the IGP
Compendium of Regenerative Agriculture: A Guide to Sustainable and Resilient Production Systems
Get PDFIn a world grappling with the profound impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, the need for a transformative shift in our approach to agriculture has never been more urgent. While conventional farming has significantly increased our food supply, it has also contributed to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions, soil depletion, and a decline in biodiversity. As the effects of these practices become increasingly evident, the call for more sustainable solutions grows louder. Enter regenerative agriculture—a beacon of hope and a promising path forward. This compendium offers a deep dive into the essence of regenerative agriculture, exploring its principles and practices and uncovering how it can address the complex challenges facing modern farming.
Climate change, driven by human activities, has led to rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events. Agriculture, inherently connected to these climatic shifts, is particularly vulnerable. Traditional farming methods exacerbate these challenges by relying on intensive chemical inputs, monocultures, and soil-degrading practices. Livestock, rice paddies, and synthetic fertilizers release significant amounts of methane and nitrous oxide—potent greenhouse gases that intensify global warming. These conventional practices emit greenhouse gases and compromise soil health, diminishing its ability to sequester carbon and support productive agriculture.
Against this backdrop of environmental strain, regenerative agriculture emerges as a transformative and hopeful vision. It invites us to reimagine agriculture not merely as a place of production but as a vibrant, interconnected ecosystem. By focusing on rejuvenating soil health, conserving water, and fostering biodiversity, regenerative practices offer a path to mitigate climate impacts and enhance food security. This shift is especially crucial in countries like India, where agriculture is not only a way of life but a lifeline for millions and where pressing issues such as water scarcity, soil degradation, and climate vulnerability demand urgent attention.
At the heart of regenerative agriculture lies the understanding that soil is a living, breathing entity rich with microbial life—an essential foundation for agricultural productivity. Regenerative practices—such as minimizing soil disturbance, employing cover crops, and diversifying crop rotations—are designed to enhance soil health and resilience. These methods align with natural processes, harnessing the power of ecosystems to restore and sustain the land. Unlike industrial farming, which often depletes soil and biodiversity, regenerative agriculture aims to heal and balance our natural resources.
This compendium delves into the fundamental principles of regenerative agriculture: minimizing soil disturbance, maximizing crop diversity, keeping soil covered, maintaining living roots year-round, and integrating livestock. Each principle is explored in depth, highlighting its significance for soil health, carbon sequestration, and farm resilience. By adopting a holistic perspective that transcends individual farm boundaries, regenerative agriculture fosters collaborative efforts to build resilient and sustainable food systems.
This compendium reveals how regenerative agriculture can redefine our relationship with the land by comprehensively examining these principles. It underscores the necessity of moving beyond traditional practices and advocating for methods that sustain and enhance the health of our ecosystems.
As we navigate the complexities of climate change and environmental degradation, regenerative agriculture offers a pathway to a more sustainable and resilient future. This compendium invites you to explore these transformative practices, appreciate their benefits, and envision a future where agriculture harmoniously coexists with the natural world, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations
Hybrid Sorghum Production: Considerations According to Breeder and End-User
No full textThe development of high-yielding, climate-resilient and product profile-driven cultivars preferred by the end users is the only way out in the context of changing climatic scenario and growing world population. The hybrids of the versatile crop, sorghum, are grown across the globe; however, the genetic gains have been limited as compared to other major crops. This chapter provides an overview of the trend of sorghum breeding from the time before the advent of heterosis till date where heterosis is accompanied by biotechnological and ‘omic-’ based approaches to study the genetic basis of traits and the concept behind it. An adequate strategy to apply different techniques in the selection of parental lines will aid in achieving the desired genetic gains specific to targeted environments
New Breeding Trends in Sorghum
No full textSorghum, a versatile cereal crop, serves as a staple food for millions and is increasingly recognized for its resilience to climate adversities. This chapter provides an encompassing overview of the current status of sorghum breeding, discussing the achievements, challenges, and future prospects. Historically, breeding efforts have primarily targeted yield improvement, biotic and abiotic stress resistance, and quality enhancement. With the advent of molecular breeding tools, there has been a paradigm shift toward genomics-assisted breeding, which holds promise in accelerating the development of superior sorghum varieties. We also shed light on the integration of high-throughput phenotyping and advanced genomics, which are playing pivotal roles in understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits. The future of sorghum breeding is anticipated to be dominated by precision breeding, where the amalgamation of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, artificial intelligence, and digital agriculture will redefine the conventional breeding pipelines. Challenges persist, particularly in bridging the gap between research advancements and their translation to smallholder farmers’ fields. It is imperative for the global community to foster collaborations, ensuring the benefits of advanced breeding technologies reach all, sustaining food security and agricultural sustainability in the face of a changing climate
Summary of the Potential and Exploitation of Omics and Biotechnological Breakthroughs in Sorghum
No full textSorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a resilient cereal crop of substantial agricultural and industrial importance. Recent advancements in omics and biotechnology offer avenues for elevating sorghum productivity, nutritional content, and stress resilience. Omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and genetic engineering, play a pivotal role in enhancing sorghum production. Multi-omics analyses offer a molecular understanding of sorghum by shedding light on the mechanisms controlling cell-specific regulation and stress tolerance. The potential and application of omics and biotechnological advances in sorghum are highlighted in this overview. It highlights how these technologies can be used to address global issues pertaining to sustainability and food security. The importance of omics in advancing sorghum research is highlighted by important discoveries and applications like mapping studies, the discovery of differentially expressed genes, and the creation of improved sorghum varieties. Sorghum research is driven by the combination of biotechnological and omics technologies, which can be leveraged to address global food security and agriculture challenges. The integration of these technologies represents a major advancement in sorghum research and cultivation and holds great promise for sustainable agriculture and a secure food supply