Genetic diversity among 20 Azerbaijani grape (Vitis vinifera L.) accessions was assessed using 10 Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers to elucidate relationships among samples and identify a convenient marker for determining genetic diversity. Based on the polymorphic information parameters such as PIC, EMR, MI, and RP were critically analyzed for utilizing these ISSR primers for genetic variability and 4 ISSR (UBC 811, UBC 812, UBC 815, UBC 857) markers were selected for future germplasm management. The total number of identified bands varied between 2-5. The maximum PIC value was observed in UBC 857 (0.478). Among genotypes, Ag oval kishmish and Yumru kishmish cultivars had the closest genetic similarity index (0.913), while Ag oval kishmish and Marandi, Yerli Muskat and Yabani uzum 1, Yerli Muskat and Yumru kishmish cultivars had the most distant genetic similarity index (0.406). These findings highlight both the complexity of grapevine genetic structure and the value of ISSR markers for detecting non-obvious relationships.

Winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) is a nutrient-rich tropical legume with considerable potential to improve food security in tropical regions. However, breeding programs for purple-podded winged bean remain limited due to insufficient information on key genetic parameters. This study aimed to assess heritability, expected genetic gain, trait correlations, and path analysis in advanced purple-podded winged bean lines. Ten breeding lines derived from crosses of Indonesian landraces were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Traits observed included days to flowering, days to harvest, fruit set, pod width, pod length, pod weight, pod weight per plant, number of seeds per pod, and yield potential. The results revealed high broad-sense heritability (>0.5) for all traits, with the highest values observed for pod length (0.96), pod width (0.95), and fruit set (0.90). Expected genetic gain was highest for fruit set (35.20%), pod weight per plant (34.44%), and yield potential (34.44%). Correlation analysis indicated strong positive relationships between days to flowering and days to harvest (r = 0.90), while yield potential showed a perfect correlation with pod weight per plant (r = 1.00). Path analysis revealed positive direct effects of fruit set (0.478) and pod weight (0.310) on pod weight per plant, whereas number of seeds per pod had a negative direct effect (-0.429). Genotypes MNN 1122 and PLB 2324 exhibited the highest yield potentials (8.58 and 7.63 t ha^-1, respectively). These findings provide important genetic insights for the development of high-yielding purple-podded winged bean varieties.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an important Philippine crop, valued both as culinary ingredient and as alternative medicine. Its bioactivity is mainly attributed to organosulfur compounds such as alliin and allicin, with other metabolites such as phenolic compounds also playing a role. Despite this, limited biochemical data exist on Philippine garlic varieties. This study aimed to characterize 12 garlic accessions collected from Ilocos Norte by determining their alliin content and total phenolic content (TPC). Alliin was quantified through high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) densitometry, while TPC was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. Results revealed differences in both alliin content and TPC, with “Ilocos Pink” consistently exhibiting the highest values (32.84 mg/g FW of alliin; 0.4985 mg GAE/g FW of TPC), suggesting strong potential for bioactivity. In contrast, “Miracle” (19.78 mg/g FW of alliin; 0.1806 mg GAE/g of TPC) and Tan Bolters (20.07 mg/g FW of alliin; 0.1658 mg GAE/g of TPC) had the lowest values for both alliin content and TPC. These findings highlight the varietal differences among accessions, providing a baseline for further studies on their bioactivity, breeding, and post-harvest utilization. This research underscores the importance of characterizing local garlic varieties to strengthen their competitive value and to promote their utilization in specialized applications.

Eleusine indica (goosegrass) is a widespread invasive species that poses a significant threat to global agriculture, particularly due to its evolving resistance to glyphosate. While resistance mechanisms such as the Pro106 mutation in the 5-enolpyruvyl-shikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) gene are well-characterized, mechanisms can vary significantly by geography. This study investigated the molecular basis of glyphosate resistance in a Korean genotype of E. indica. Unlike genotype reported in other regions, such as Mexico, no Pro106 mutation was detected in the EPSPS gene of the Korean samples. However, Target Site Resistance (TSR) was suggested to be mediated by significant overexpression of EPSPS in glyphosate-treated plants compared to controls. Concurrently, Non-Target Site Resistance (NTSR) mechanisms played a critical role; differential expression analysis revealed the upregulation of key detoxification gene families, including Cytochrome P450s (CYP450), Glutathione S-transferases (GST), and Glycosyltransferases (GT). Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses indicated a metabolic shift involving the activation of glutathione metabolism and MAPK signaling, coupled with a suppression of photosynthesis-related pathways, suggesting an energy reallocation strategy for survival. These findings demonstrate that glyphosate resistance in Korean E. indica is likely mediated by a complex interplay of EPSPS overexpression and metabolic adaptation, underscoring the importance of understanding regional genetic diversity for developing effective weed management strategies.

Mungbean is one of the prominent pulse crops in Indonesia since the mungbean seeds are highly nutritious and has become an important part of the diet for the community. The black-seeded mungbean highly nutritious as it contains high anthocyanin content. We have developed a black-seeded mungbean lines that need to be evaluated for drought tolerance. Drought tolerance is important as mungbean is usually cultivated during the drought-prone dry season that leads to total loss. This study aimed to (1) determine the effectiveness of drought tolerance indices to select drought tolerance in black-seeded mungbean, (2) reveal the drought indices most suitable to select drought-tolerant, high- yielding black-seeded mungbean lines. This study was conducted during dry season in the Field Laboratory of Universitas Nusa Cendana. A Split-Plot design was employed, consisting of irrigation frequencies as the main plot and mungbean genotype as the sub- plot treatments. The main plot consisted of three levels, i.e. irrigation every day (I₁), every four days (I₂), and every seven days (I₃), and the subplot consisted of 23 mungbean genotypes. Seed yields under non-stress and stress conditions were used to calculate the drought indices. The data were subjected to ANOVA, PCA and correlation analysis. There were significant variations in seed yields among genotypes under different drought indices. The indices MP, GMP, STI, HARM, MRP, SSI, YSI, MSTIK1, and MSTIK2 are suitable for selection of drought-tolerant, high-yielding mungbean lines. V9.HT, V10.HT, V11.HT, V16.HT, V18.HT, V19.HT, V20.HT, V22.HT were potential for further evaluation as promising drought tolerant, high yielding varieties.

Rice blast, caused by the pathogenic fungus Magnaporthe oryzae, is a highly destructive disease of rice that leads to significant reductions in crop yield each year and poses a serious threat to rice production worldwide. Utilizing R genes to develop resistant varieties continues to be the most cost-effective and efficient approach for managing rice blast. Molecular screening of important blast resistance genes of rice and their allelic diversity were assessed in forty eight wild and local rice genotypes of Bangladesh using ten previously synthesized gene-based SSR markers. A varying range between 18.7% to 87.5% was seen in the genetic frequencies of ten key blast resistance genes. Fourteen genotypes possessed maximum eight blast resistance genes while, nine of the genotypes had seven blast resistance genes. Nine genotypes contained six blast resistance genes and five genotypes had a minimum of two blast resistance genes. At least five positive pieces of the predicted product size were occupied by thirty-five genotypes, among total forty eight genotypes. These findings are important for identifying and incorporating functional resistance genes from Bangladeshi local germplasms into the elite cultivars by using marker-assisted selection and providing better resistance to blast. Marker analysis of resistant and susceptible genotypes using ten RAPD showed that, markers OPA 5, OPF 9 and OPH 18 clearly differentiate resistant genotypes BAU dhan-3 from susceptible genotypes BRRI dhan 28 and BRRI dhan 29 indicating the potentiality of these markers to identify blast resistant rice genotypes and use in marker assisted breeding (MAB) to develop blast resistant high yielding rice varieties in Bangladesh.

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• Genetic diversity and identification of blast resistance genes through SSR markers in Bangladeshi aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.) landraces
  Sumi Saha, Md Mamunur Rashid, Rabeya Khatun, Md Sams-Al Safin, Sohana Jui, Mst Tanjina Shahanaj Turin, Md Mamunur Rashid, Md Arifuzzaman
  Ecological Genetics and Genomics.2026; 39: 100481.     CrossRef

Eight rice genotypes, including Binam, Hashemi, Deylamani, TH1, Hasani, Saleh, IR75479-199-3-3, and Gohar, were crossed in a line tester mating design to generate breeding populations, assess the general and specific combining ability (GCA and SCA) and identify suitable combinations for yield. 23 genotypes (15 F1s and eight parents) were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Rice Research Institute of Iran during the 2020 cropping season. Analysis of variance revealed significant genotype effects and GCA and SCA mean square values for all the investigated traits, which indicated the genetic diversity of the parental genotypes and the importance of both additive and non-additive gene effects in the inheritance of the studied traits. Results indicated that additive gene action controlled plant height. Meanwhile, non-additive gene action controlled panicle length, number of panicles per plant, heading date, hundred-grain weight, number of grains per panicle, and grain yield. Effects of general combining ability were significant for the panicle length, the number of panicles per plant, heading date, hundred-grain weight, number of grains per panicle, and plant height in all testers. Hasani and Saleh's genotypes demonstrated to be good general combiners for early maturity. Gohar was the best specific combiner to enhance yield components. Hashemi×Gohar was identified as the best combination for improving grain yield and reducing the number of days to heading. The predominance of non-additive types of gene actions related to grain yield and its components suggested that selecting the best plants should be postponed to advanced generation.

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• Combining ability and gene action analysis for growth and precocity in kola (Cola nitida (Vent) Schott. & Endl.)
  Abraham Akpertey, Paul Kwasi Krah Adu-Gyamfi, Esther Anokye, Alfred Arthur, Daniel Nyadanu
  Euphytica.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in Iranian local rice genotypes for yield, and some agronomic traits
  Mostafa Modarresi
  Reproduction and Breeding.2026; 6(1): 9.     CrossRef
• Characterization of Iranian rice genetic resources for key grain quality traits
  Mostafa Modarresi
  Genetic Resources.2026; 7(13): 153.     CrossRef
• Assessing genetic potential of direct seeded rice for yield and its component traits in upland conditions of Western Himalayas
  Surbhi Patyal, DP Pandey, Kumar Sanu, Arshia Prashar, Nijit Chauhan
  ORYZA- An International Journal on Rice.2026; 63(1): 27.     CrossRef
• Analysis of line × tester mating design for rice (Oryza sativa L.) based on earliness, yield, and its components
  Randa Samir Nofal, Essam F. El-Hashash, Moamen Mohamed Abou El-Enin, Karima M. El-Absy, Walid Fouad Ghidan, Heba Abdel Hamid El Sherbiny, Mohamed M. M. Eltabakh, A. A. Hawash
  Discover Agriculture.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a premier global crop, celebrated not only for its economic importance but also as a fundamental “well-being food” that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants. This review highlights the transformative impact of CRISPR/Cas9 and next-generation precision tools, such as base and prime editing, on modern tomato breeding. Beyond functional genomics, we focus on the strategic engineering of tomato to maximize productivity through fruit size optimization and the biofortification of high-value metabolites (e.g., GABA, lycopene, and vitamins). Furthermore, we examine recent advances in developing multi-stress resilience against both biotic and abiotic challenges. A significant emphasis is placed on re-designing plant architecture and developmental traits to tailor tomato varieties for future agricultural systems, particularly indoor and vertical farming. By advanced delivery methods, CRISPR technologies offer unprecedented potential to accelerate the development of “smart” tomato, ensuring sustainable agriculture and global food security in a changing climate.

In this study, molecular-genetic analyses were carried out to identify resistance to yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) in soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) samples. Yellow rust is one of the most destructive diseases of wheat worldwide, causing significant yield losses and posing a serious threat to global food security, particularly under changing climatic conditions. The disease is also highly prevalent in Central Asian countries, including Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, where wheat is a staple crop and ensuring stable production is of strategic importance. A total of 68 wheat genotypes were examined and genotyped using 42 highly polymorphic DNA markers. Based on the obtained phenotypic and genotypic data, association analysis was performed using the TASSEL and STRUCTURE programs. To identify genetic associations, GLM (General Linear Model) and MLM (Mixed Linear Model) statistical models were applied. The analysis revealed that the following markers showed significant and reliable associations with yellow rust resistance: Barc0187 (p=0.0040), Gwm340 (p=0.0043), Barc008 (p=0.0132), and Gwm111 (p=0.0147). These markers are recommended as reliable molecular indicators for identifying yellow rust-resistant genotypes and for improving marker-assisted selection (MAS) strategies in future wheat breeding programs.

This research attempted to validate novel molecular markers linked to high antioxidant traits using an F₂ population and a local Thai rice population. We performed total flavonoid content, total phenolic content (TPC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays to assess the antioxidant capacities of rice populations. In the F₂ (“Pathum Thani 1”דHawm Mali Daeng”) population, these traits exhibited a quantitative distribution with high heritability (82.7%–98.3%) and high genetic advance (66%–94%). In validation using 10 molecular markers, OsRc and In1-Rc displayed polymorphism in parent cultivars and in bulked segregant analysis. However, only OsRc had strong associations with TPC (R² = 52.2%, p < 0.001) and FRAP (R² = 43.0%, p < 0.001), whereas In1-Rc featured no significant associations (R² ≤ 0.1%). When verified in Thai rice cultivars, OsRc could discriminate red pericarp rice cultivars with high antioxidant properties from white pericarp cultivars with low antioxidant activity, confirming its efficiency in selecting antioxidant traits in rice. These findings indicate that OsRc is a functional marker for selecting rice lines with high antioxidant activity, thereby facilitating early-stage genotyping in rice breeding programs.

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• Genome-wide association study of antioxidant compounds and antioxidant activity in a panel of Thai rice cultivars
  Saranyu Thaworn, Phanomsak Tomjai, Teerapong Buaboocha, Supachitra Chadchawan, Monnat Pongpanich, Chanita Paliyavuth, Waraluk Kasettranan
  Euphytica.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef

Patchouli is a plant that produces essential oil. One problem with patchouli is that production remains low due to virus attacks. To address this issue, virus-free seedlings can be produced through tissue culture. This measure requires examining the effectiveness of patchouli regeneration in vitro through histological observations and acclimatization, in as much as effective propagation supports healthy seedlings. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal propagation for Aceh patchouli via in vitro propagation, through histological observation. It investigated the optimal acclimatization for patchouli to assist patchouli adaptation. The study was carried out in several stages, starting from shoot multiplication, root induction, and acclimatization. Shoot multiplication was carried out on MS medium supplemented with BAP : 0.25 mg/L, 0.50 mg/L, 0.75 mg/L, 1.00 mg/L, 1.25 mg/L, and 1.50 mg/L. Root induction was carried out on MS medium supplemented with NAA : 0 mg/L, 0.2 mg/L, 0.4 mg/L, 0.6 mg/L, and 0.8 mg/L. Finally, the acclimatization was performed on compost under covering treatment. The results demonstrated that the best shoot multiplication, taking place in 6.3 days, was obtained through the 0.25 mg/L BAP treatment. This treatment resulted in the highest shoot proliferation, with a mean of 68.5 shoots per explant, as well as the greatest shoot height (5.1 cm). The best root induction was obtained from NAA 0.2 mg/L, producing a plant length (18.27 cm), plant height (9.60 cm), root length (8.67 cm), and plant fresh weight (1.49 g). During the acclimatization stage, the 12-day covering treatment produced the best seedlings, as evinced by plant length (25.8 cm), shoot height (19.5 cm), root length (7.9 cm), fresh weight (1.85 g), leaf width (3.0 cm), and a survival rate of 100%.

Carbohydrates and genetic factors influence cell division in citrus fruits from ovule cultures. Here, we investigated the effects of various carbohydrate sources (sorbitol, maltose, galactose, and lactose) on cell proliferation, somatic embryogenesis, and plant regeneration in three Citrus unshiu cultivars (‘Miyagawa wase’ [MW], ‘Haryejosaeng’ [HW], and ‘Nankan 20 gou’ [NW]), and one C. reticulata cultivar (‘Ootaponkan’ [PM]). In PM, carbohydrate sources did not affect proliferation; MW showed a significant but marginal increase in media containing 300 mM mannitol. It also proliferated well in media supplemented with 300 mM sorbitol and a mixture of galactose and lactose. NW achieved the best rate with 100 mM mannitol and 146 mM lactose, whereas HW proliferated well with 100 mM mannitol alone. Phylogenetic analysis using 18 citrus varieties showed distinct genetic differences among the cultivars, suggesting that the differences in regeneration capacities in different carbohydrate sources could be attributed to their genetic differences. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing tissue culture protocols for mandarin varieties and may enhance the efficiency of citrus breeding and tissue culture applications.

Black rot, a disease of significance affecting vegetable Brassica crops, is primarily caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc). When the disease spreads extensively in the field, it can lead to substantial yield losses, particularly under favorable environmental conditions. Controlling the spread of this disease is challenging, and the primary approach involves utilizing resistant cultivars or disease-free seeds. Among the various methods available for identifying different Xcc races, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based molecular markers have proven to be highly reliable. To date, the PCR method has successfully identified Xcc races 1 to 7. In this study, molecular markers were developed for races 4 and 9 through the sequencing and alignment of the whole genome sequences of Xcc races, closely related Xanthomonas campestris (Xc) pathovars, and two Xanthomonas species. These designed markers were subsequently validated by PCR with bacterial genomic DNA samples from Xcc races and 7 other bacteria. The results indicated successful amplification only for race 4 and race 9, yielding amplicon sizes of 1080 bp and 830 bp, respectively, while the other strains failed to amplify. Furthermore, the amplicons from races 4 and 9 were cloned and sequenced, confirming that both races exhibited matching sequences after alignment. Consequently, the molecular marker method offers a rapid and efficient means of differentiating between Xcc races 4 and 9 within a few hours, presenting itself as a viable alternative to conventional methods that rely on the use of differential cultivars of Brassicaceae for identifying Xcc races.

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• Development of molecular markers for the detection of Paracidovorax citrulli strains causing bacterial fruit blotch in watermelon
  San Ha Choe, Nihar Sahu, Ijaz Yaseen, Se Hyeon Jeong, Gyoung Hee Kim, Jong In Park, Hoy Taek Kim
  Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology.2026; 48(3): 220.     CrossRef
• An update to the molecular identification of Xanthomonas campestris disease causing pathogens in crucifers – A mini review
  Nihar Sahu, Masao Watanabe, Jong-In Park
  Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology.2026; 142: 103102.     CrossRef
• Molecular marker development for specific amplification of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris race 8 causing black rot disease in Brassica crops
  Sopheap Mao, Yeo-Hyeon Kim, Nihar Sahu, Su-Won Kim, Hoy-Taek Kim, Masao Watanabe, Jong-In Park
  Journal of General Plant Pathology.2025; 91(1): 31.     CrossRef

Coix lacryma-jobi L. is a cereal crop belonging to the Poaceae family, valued for its nutritional, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Among its varieties, two prominent landraces, C. lacryma-jobi var. kiboa and var. tapol, are cultivated for their distinct grain morphologies and favorable agronomic traits. However, despite its economic importance, detailed cytogenetic and molecular phylogenetic studies remain limited. This study presents a cytogenetic and molecular phylogenetic analysis of C. lacryma-jobi L. var. kiboa and tapol. Partial cytogenomic characterization on the 45S and 5S rDNA loci as well as Arabidopsis- type telomeric repeats using pre-labeled oligomer probes for fluorescence in situ hybridization (PLOP-FISH) technique confirmed a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 20 in both varieties. The 45S and 5S rDNA loci were localized on the nucleolar organizer region (NOR) of the short arm of chromosome 1 and the long arm of chromosome 4, respectively, indicating conserved chromosomal arrangements. Additionally, Arabidopsis-type telomeric repeats were detected at the terminal regions of all chromosomes. Chromosome sizes ranged from 2.98 ± 0.07 to 3.74 ± 0.11 μm in var. kiboa and from 3.42 ± 0.08 to 4.12 ± 0.05 μm in var. tapol. Phylogenetic analyses based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS1 and ITS4) genes revealed a close genetic relationship between the two varieties, supporting their shared evolutionary lineage. These findings enhanced our understanding of adlay genetic diversity and provide foundational insights for plant breeding improvement, conservation strategies, and future genomic research.

Cotton fiber development is a complex process regulated by multiple networks that involve various transcription factors (TFs). Recent studies (2020-2025) have elucidated the roles of TFs through silencing and overexpression experiments in cotton plants. We conducted a literature search in NCBI using the keywords ‘transcription factor, fiber elongation, cotton plant’ to identify relevant studies. This review focuses on studies published between 2020 and 2025 that were selected for review. We discussed various TFs and molecular mechanisms leading to altered fiber length. The research works included various analyses of transcription factors, genes, proteins, and metabolites as well as fiber quality results. The reviewed data highlight the complexity of fiber development networks, which involve extensive crosstalk among regulatory pathways. Despite the complexity, many novel TFs, modules, and tandems that participate in fiber elongation have been found. Their positive or negative regulatory roles in fiber formation stages promote a more profound understanding of fiber initiation and elongation.

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• Functional Characterization of GbERF13 Reveals Its Role in ABA-Responsive Fiber Development and Molecular Marker Development in Sea Island Cotton
  Jin Chen, Jinxuan Chen, Qingqing Yan, Min Gao, Qin Chen, Tao Lv, Quanjia Chen, Kai Zheng
  Plants.2026; 15(13): 2074.     CrossRef

This study aimed to enhance the Inpari 42 rice variety by integrating the aromatic trait through Marker-Assisted Backcrossing (MAB) while improving key agronomic characteristics in the BC₁F₁ generation. The aromatic gene from Merah Wangi was successfully introgressed into BC₁F₁ plants, confirmed through molecular analysis using the Bradbury marker, which detects mutations in the BADH2 gene responsible for fragrance in rice. Thirty BC₁F₁ plants with a heterozygous mutation in BADH2 were identified, demonstrating the reliability of MAB in maintaining the aromatic trait across generations. Agronomic evaluations revealed that BC₁F₁ plants exhibited intermediate flowering time, increased plant height, and longer panicles compared to the parental lines. Additionally, BC₁F₁ plants showed enhanced tillering capacity, more productive tillers, and higher grain yield per plant, indicating the successful integration of desirable traits from both parents. The next step in this research is to conduct further backcrosses with Inpari 42 to develop a stable aromatic variety, combining the high-yielding characteristics of Inpari 42 with the aromatic traits of Merah Wangi. These findings highlight the potential of BC₁F₁ lines for developing high-yielding aromatic rice varieties suitable for diverse agricultural settings.

This research was conducted to evaluate the contribution of four candidate genes — CsABA2 (CsGy5G015450), CsLRR-RPK2 (CsGy5G015660), CsPM5.2 (CsGy5G015960), and CsaMLO8 (CsGy5G026660) — to powdery mildew (PM) resistance in cucumber germplasms. For this purpose, fifty-four germplasms, consisting of thirty-three breeding lines and twenty-one landraces from fourteen diverse origins, were evaluated for PM-resistance at the adult plant stage and genotyped using molecular markers associated with the four PM-resistance-related genes. According to the phenotypic assessment, sixteen germplasms were susceptible, nineteen germplasms exhibited intermediate-resistant, and nineteen germplasms demonstrated resistant to PM. The results from phenotypic evaluation and genotyping analysis indicated that among the PM-susceptible germplasms, 50% of CsLRR-RPK2, 31% of CsABA2, 25% of CsaMLO8, and 18% of CsPM5.2 had inconsistent genotypes. Genotype inconsistencies among PM-resistant germplasms were observed in 16% of CsLRR-RPK2, 16% of CsABA2, 10% of CsaMLO8, and 10% of CsPM5.2. This study showed that the combination of CsPM5.2 and CsaMLO8 alleles is more effective and beneficial for PM-resistance breeding programs in cucumber. And also, this suggests there is a relationship between PM-resistance and the genotype of a combination of PM-resistance candidate genes. The findings of the genotyping and PM-phenotypic evaluation of the current study may improve selection accuracy in breeding for PM-resistance in cucumber.

To determine the lethal dose (LD) and growth-reducing dose (GR), the exposures were from gamma activity rates such as low activity rate by multipurpose panoramic 70 Ci and high activity rate by Gamma Cell 3 kCi. The study material was sourced by Cobalt-60 (⁶⁰Co) with variant doses, i.e., 10Gy, 20Gy, 30Gy, 40Gy, 50Gy, and 60Gy for each gamma activity rate. The study was performed at the Center for Isotope and Radiation Application, National Nuclear Energy Agency of Indonesia (CIRA-NNEA). Data were analyzed using non-parametric tests and analysis of variance. The lethal dose (LD₅₀) and growth reduction (GR₅₀) were identified based on regression analysis. The analysis of variance revealed that highly significant differences among irradiation treatments in number of leaves, survival rate, and plant height. A linear regression model was developed to determine the mean LD₅₀ and GR₅₀ of Super Napier grass. The highest variability of mutants was observed in gamma-ray irradiated mutants with lethal doses (LD₅₀). LD₅₀, 35.82Gy-55.71Gy, at a low activity rate (Multipurpose panoramic irradiator 70 Ci) is higher than the high activity rate (Gamma Cell 3 kCi), 28.98-28.99. In general, the survival rate of Super Napier grass decreased along with increasing irradiation dose. The generated LD₅₀ and GR₅₀ were identified as optimal dosages for the radiosensitivity of Super Napier grass. This study becomes preliminary mutagenesis breeding to generate genetic diversity of grass, specifically in Super Napier grass.

Pre-harvest sprouting is a major physiological problem in rice caused by prolonged rainfall and high humidity during the harvest period, and it is one of the most important targets in current rice breeding programs. In this study, the effect of cold and freezing storage on the pre-harvest sprouting rate was investigated using ten rice varieties under four different treatments. The result showed storage treatments of panicle samples used for germinate evaluation had no significant influence on the pre-harvest sprouting rate. These findings may enhance the efficiency of mass screening for pre-harvest sprouting and support the development of tolerant rice varieties.

Salicylic acid (SA) is a plant hormone that has a significant role in many biochemical processes involved in cotton plant resistance against biotic and abiotic stress factors. Exogenous SA has been shown to have effects on plant growth and development, resistance to fungi and insects, and mitigation of abiotic stress factors. Treating cotton seedlings or plants with SA in a culture medium or spraying them with SA has enabled scientists to identify genes responsible for this chemical, associated with several biological functions. SA has been established as part of the defense system in cotton plants: antifungal resistance and insect resistance. Besides, it is a part of plant growth and development as well as fiber development. Identifying SA-responsive genes and understanding their roles in plant resistance enables the development of stress-resistant genotypes. This paper reviews scientific data resulting from the treatment of cotton plants with exogenous SA. In the first section, we discussed antifungal resistance-related data linked to SA treatment, which makes up the highest content of the review. We highlighted its significant role in cotton plant antifungal resistance. The second section deals with SA-responsive genes and metabolites linked with insect resistance. In the third section, we reviewed SA-responsive genes and enzymes associated with cotton plant growth and development. The scientific data regarding SA-linked cotton fiber development have been discussed in the last section. In summary, we discussed SA-responsive genes, proteins, and metabolites that could be used to develop genotypes with enhanced traits.

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• Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Key Genes for Salicylic Acid Biosynthesis in Four Cotton Species
  Jiaqi Lin, Xin Zhou, Shandang Shi, Xin Li, Manhong Wang, Fei Wang, Liping Zhu, Hongbin Li
  International Journal of Molecular Sciences.2026; 27(9): 3936.     CrossRef

CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) gene-edited (GEd) crops have demonstrated significant potential to enhance global food security in the face of escalating climate challenges and rapid population growth. Since 2019, for regulatory purposes, the United States (U.S.) and several other countries have recognized transgene-free, genome-edited lines as equivalent to conventionally bred varieties. Notably, the first genome-edited food product, Calyno™ soybean oil, was commercialized in the U.S. and marketed as a non-genetically modified organism (GMO) item. Recently, regulatory frameworks, such as the enactment of the Precision Breeding Law in the United Kingdom, the European Union’s New Genomic Techniques (NGT) legislation, and the repeal of the SECURE Rule in the United States, have further established guidelines permitting the use of genome-edited lines in agriculture similar to with conventionally bred crops, provided that these lines are free of transgenic elements. In Korea, researchers and policymakers are actively engaging in discussions to establish a preliminary review committee for GEd crops to align regulatory practices with international trade standards. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate two gene-edited rice lines for generational stability in terms of molecular characteristics, focusing on edited nucleotide sequences, gene expression, target phenotypes, the presence of transgene elements, and potential off-target effects across multiple generations. Additionally, several technical challenges in nucleotide editing tracing emerged during the evaluation process that warrant further attention. The findings presented in this study are expected to offer valuable insights for shaping the regulatory framework in Korea for CRISPR-based gene-edited crops.

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• CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated Genome Editing for Enhancing Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice: An Omics Guided Perspective
  Mahavir Joshi, Pari Panwar, Smile Sharma, Bharat Sagar, Sukhminderjit Kaur, Manikant Tripathi
  Molecular Biotechnology.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.), a valuable medicinal plant with economic importance, serves as a source of both therapeutic compounds and vegetable oil for human use. Genome editing techniques have been widely applied to improve key agronomic traits in various species. Therefore, this study aims to develop an efficient method for seed sterilization and protoplast isolation in milk thistle. For seed sterilization, seed treated with hydrogen peroxide for either 4 hours or 7 hours with ethanol and detergent showed more sufficient to sterilize seed of milk thistle for in vitro growth than ethanol, sodium hypochlorite, and chlorine gas. For protoplast isolation in milk thistle, high-yielding, viable protoplasts were successfully isolated from the leaves of 21-day-old plants using a 2 hours enzymatic treatment containing 2% Viscozyme^® L, 1% Celluclast^® 1.5 L, and 1% Pectinex^® Ultra SP-L. Additionally, transient expression of green fluorescent protein was observed following polyethylene glycol-mediated transfection. Therefore, the seed sterilization and protoplast isolation methods developed in this study can facilitate in vitro culture, gene function analysis, and genome editing aimed at improving agronomic traits in milk thistle.

Cadmium (Cd) contamination in rice poses significant health risks to consumers. This study aimed to reduce Cd accumulation in the elite Vietnamese rice variety TBR225 (TBR225) by editing the Natural Resistance-Associated Macrophage Protein 5 (OsNRAMP5) gene using Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR- associated 9 (Cas9) technology. We successfully generated OsNRAMP5 knockout mutants through Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. Sequencing analysis revealed various mutation types, including deletions, insertions, and substitutions, all resulting in premature stop codons or frameshift mutations. Three homozygous, transgene-free mutant lines were selected for further analysis. These lines exhibited significantly reduced Cd accumulation in roots (78.4-84.5%), shoots (72.3-83.8%), and grains (50.5-66.0%) compared to wild-type plants when exposed to different Cd concentrations. Importantly, the OsNRAMP5 mutations did not adversely affect major agronomic traits, including growth time, plant height, tiller number, grain yield, or amylose content. Additionally, the accumulation of essential micronutrients such as Fe and Zn remained unaffected in the mutant lines. Our results demonstrate the potential of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated OsNRAMP5 editing as an effective strategy for developing low-Cd accumulating rice varieties without compromising agronomic performance or nutritional quality. This approach could significantly contribute to enhancing food safety in regions facing Cd contamination challenges.

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• Genome editing in rice: toward climate-resilient, nutrient-rich yields
  Xin Huang, Wenshu He, Ludovic Bassie, Paul Christou, Teresa Capell
  Trends in Plant Science.2026; 31(7): 925.     CrossRef
• CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Multi-Stress Resilience and Prospects for Agricultural Sustainability
  Abdul Malik, Nur Ardiyana Rejab, Muhamad Afiq Aziz
  Journal of Crop Health.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Engineering Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants Using CRISPR Cas: From Molecular Targets to Physiological Resilience
  Komal Sharma, Upma Bhatt, Vineet Soni
  Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.2026; 26(2): 4593.     CrossRef
• Exploring Flooding Challenges, Causes, and Mitigation Strategies in Rice
  Abdoul-Razak Oumarou Mahamane, Junior S. Kamara, Moise Hubert Byiringiro, Alpha Sow, Khaled F. M. Salem
  International Journal of Genomics.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Liebig Review: Essential and Beneficial Elements in the Regulation of Cadmium Uptake and Tolerance in Crop Plants
  Maria Manzoor, Karl Hermann Mühling
  Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• CRISPR/Cas9 Mediated Genome Editing for Enhancing Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Rice: An Omics Guided Perspective
  Mahavir Joshi, Pari Panwar, Smile Sharma, Bharat Sagar, Sukhminderjit Kaur, Manikant Tripathi
  Molecular Biotechnology.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Harnessing breeding and biotechnological innovations for global food security under climate change
  Obaid Ur Rehman, Feifei Zhu, Xinjuan Hu, Xiangru Xu, Muhammad Uzair, Jiangya Qian, Sajid Fiaz, Shuhao Huo
  Functional & Integrative Genomics.2025;[Epub]     CrossRef

Rice yield is severely affected by phosphorus (P) deficiency, and plants have evolved various strategies to cope with this limitation. While some rice genotypes are adapted to low phosphate (Pi) availability, others remain sensitive to Pi deficiency. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using a hydroponically cultivated population of 190 North Korean (NK) rice plants to identify genes associated with phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) and Pi deficiency tolerance. The rice plants were grown in Yoshida nutrient media with either full (10 mg/L) or low-P (1 mg/L) concentrations for 40 days. The phenotypic response to Pi deficiency was assessed at the seedling stage, followed by an evaluation of eight agricultural traits: chlorophyll content (SPAD), shoot length (SL), shoot fresh weight (SFW), shoot dry weight (SDW), root fresh weight (RFW), root dry weight (RDW), and tiller number (TN). The GWAS analysis revealed a total of 166 significant lead SNPs, with six located near known genes for Pi deficiency tolerance: OsTre6P and OsPT3 for RL, OsGH3.12 for SPAD, OsCPK30 for SL, OsWRKY74 for RSL, and OsPT10 for RSL and RRFW. An additional six lead SNPs were identified as novel genes. The haplotypes of 12 candidate genes showed significant differences in the phenotypic values of the corresponding traits. In conclusion, both known and novel genes identified in this GWAS have significant impacts on Pi deficiency tolerance in the NK rice population.

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• Transcription factors in phosphorus utilization: enhancing crop productivity and stress resilience
  Manli Zhao, Yan Sun, Chenxi Fu, Siji Wang, Jianbo Shen, Sanyuan Tang, Lingyun Cheng
  Planta.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Genome-wide association study identifies loci and candidate genes for root traits in rice grown in Brazil
  Gabriel Brandão das Chagas, Latóia Eduarda Maltzahn, Josiane Vargas de Oliveira Maximino, Viviane Kopp da Luz, Ariano Martins de Magalhães Junior, Antonio Costa de Oliveira, Luciano Carlos da Maia, Camila Pegoraro
  Crop Design.2025; 4(2): 100095.     CrossRef
• Genetic Exploration of β-glucan and Cellulose Synthesis in Barley
  Sehyun Choi, Young-Mi Yoon, Jin-CheonPark, On-SookHur, Changsoo Kim
  Korean Journal of Breeding Science.2025; 57(2): 159.     CrossRef
• RiceSNP-ABST: a deep learning approach to identify abiotic stress-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms in rice
  Quan Lu, Jiajun Xu, Renyi Zhang, Hangcheng Liu, Meng Wang, Xiaoshuang Liu, Zhenyu Yue, Yujia Gao
  Briefings in Bioinformatics.2024;[Epub]     CrossRef

The genus Rhynchostylis contains important commercial orchids in Thailand with high diversity, but limited information is available regarding the genetic diversity of these orchids. Rhynchostylis has a short blooming period, which makes more difficult to distinguish between variations based only on their appearances. This study evaluated the genetic variation among six accessions of Rhynchostylis, along with one Vanda and one Aerides accession collected from different locations in the northeast of Thailand using 16 polymorphic inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The ISSR markers comprised 83 alleles with sizes ranging from 208 to 1,223 bp. The average number of alleles per locus was 5.19, with a standard deviation of 3.49. The average percentage of polymorphic bands was 95.21%. Polymorphism information content (PIC) values ranged between 0.05 and 0.44, with a mean average of 0.21. The calculated genetic similarity coefficients ranged from 0.383 to 0.914, suggesting a high level of genetic diversity among all the samples. UPGMA dendrograms were created using genetic similarity coefficients and divided into three main clusters. Cluster I contained four closely related R. gigantea orchids. Cluster II comprised two accessions, R. gigantea var. vivaphandhul and V. coelestis, while Cluster III contained two accessions of R. retusa and A. houlettiana. Based on ISSR data, the genetic similarities among the 8 orchid accessions do not correlate with flower color phenotypes and sampling locations, except for Cluster I. The results suggest that ISSR markers can effectively assess the genetic information of both wild and cultivated orchid resources. This study provides useful information for further development of novel markers specific to orchid varieties and for assisting the success of orchid breeding programs through the selection of parent plants.

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• Phylogenetic relationship based on DNA barcodes and comparative analysis of phytochemical contents among Rhynchostylis orchids in Thailand
  Juthaporn Saengprajak, Jirapa Phetsom, Aphidech Sangdee, Arnusorn Saengprajak, Thanwanit Thanyasiriwat, Wuttipong Mahakham
  Scientific Reports.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Development of ISSR-derived SCAR markers for precise identification and conservation of Rhynchostylis gigantea and its variety rubrum in Thailand
  Juthaporn Saengprajak, Thanwanit Thanyasiriwat, Arnusorn Saengprajak, Aphidech Sangdee
  South African Journal of Botany.2026; 189: 551.     CrossRef

Cotton is a globally important fiber crop, but many elite cultivars are recalcitrant to in vitro regeneration. We developed a callus-mediated plant regeneration protocol for the local G. barbadense L. cultivar Surkhan-106. Sterilized seeds were germinated in vitro, and hypocotyl and cotyledon explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with various auxin/cytokinin combinations. Robust callus induction was achieved from hypocotyl explants within 2–3 weeks. Somatic embryogenesis was induced from callus after approximately 12–14 weeks on medium supplemented with indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), kinetin, and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Embryogenic callus was periodically subcultured to prevent browning, and torpedo-stage somatic embryos were matured on hormone-free medium. These embryos germinated into plantlets within 10–15 days on MS medium. The entire regeneration cycle, from seed to plantlet, was completed in about 4–5 months. Hypocotyl explants showed significantly higher callus formation frequency (85%) and regeneration efficiency than cotyledon explants (60%) (ANOVA, p < 0.05). This study establishes the first efficient callus-based regeneration system for Surkhan-106, an important Uzbek cotton variety. The optimized protocol can facilitate rapid clonal propagation and genetic transformation of Surkhan-106 and other recalcitrant cotton cultivars, accelerating breeding programs for improved stress tolerance and yield.

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• Molecular and physiological indicators of heat tolerance in upland cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.)
  Abrorjon Y. Kurbonov, Mohigul Abdullayeva, Feruza F. Mamedova, Muxammad-Latif M. Nazirov, Naima Sh. Khojaqulova, Sanjar Sh. Djumaev, Yashin Babayev, Sayfulla Boboyev
  Journal of Plant Interactions.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef
• Molecular Characterization of Fusarium Wilt Resistance in Naturally Colored and Elite Upland Cotton Germplasm
  Abrorjon Y. Kurbonov, Feruza F. Mamedova, Sanjar Sh. Djumayev, Mukhammad Latif M. Nazirov, Naima Sh. Xojakulova, Maftuna U. Makhmudova, Ozod S. Turaev
  Journal of Natural Fibers.2026;[Epub]     CrossRef

Black sapote (Diospyros digyna Jacq.) is a fruit that is rich in benefits and has high economic value. However, the sex of this plant is difficult to determine early, and data on the plant is still very limited. This qualitative quantitative research was conducted to identify the genetic diversity of black sapote based on RAPD marker to determine the sex of black sapote plants. The sample used consisted of seven black sapote accessions with sample codes including P, M1, M2, M3, F1, F2, and F3. This research consists of several stages, namely DNA extraction and PCR amplification using six RAPD primers (OPA 02, OPA 05, OPA 08, OPA 09, OPC 09, and OPD 15), including electrophoresis to visualize amplified DNA. Data were analyzed using NTSYS 2.02 software and dendogram were obtained using the UPGMA method in the SAHN function. The results of the analysis showed that the polymorphism resulting from the seven black sapote accessions ranged from 50–80%, with PIC (Polymorphic Information Content) values ranging from 0.28–0.50. The closest related accessions are M1 with F2, while accession P with F2 has the highest genetic diversity. The OPA 02 primer with a band measuring 380 bp can be used as a putative marker in the determination of the female sex and hermaphrodite of black sapote plants.

Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis [Willd.] Ohwi & Ohashi) has recently become widely cultivated in Asia. Generally, it is sensitive to flooding stress. Wild relatives of adzuki bean have shown higher tolerances to abiotic stressors than cultivars, but their responses to flooding are not well understood. In this study, the waterlogging tolerance levels of 202 accessions from two cultivated Vigna species including V. angularis var. angularis (cultivated adzuki bean), V. umbellata (rice bean), and two wild ones consisting of V. angularis var. nipponensis (wild adzuki bean), and V. nakashimae, were evaluated at the early vegetative stage using a foliar damage score. Additionally, the responses of 119 accessions from V. angularis var. nipponesis bean and V. nakashimae to submergence at the germination stage were evaluated using germination-related traits. Among the tested species, cultivated adzuki bean showed the lowest tolerance to waterlogging, while V. nakashimae showed the greatest. At the germination stage, seeds of V. nakashimae were more tolerant of submergence than seeds of V. angularis var. nipponesis, exhibiting significantly higher normal seedling indexes. There was no significant correlation between the early vegetative-stage index and either germination-stage index for both V. angularis var. nipponensis and V. nakashimae, suggesting that the genetic bases regulating flooding stress responses at the two growth stages differ. However, we identified four V. nakashimae accessions that exhibited tolerant or very tolerant responses to flooding at both stages, suggesting their potential for use in breeding flood-tolerant adzuki bean varieties.

Perilla frutescens is a traditionally cultivated crop in East Asia that exhibits significant morphological variation between its two main variants: var. frutescens and var. crispa. To investigate the genetic basis of trait variation and segregation, we developed an F₂ population from a cross between weedy accessions of the two variants of Perilla and analyzed 107 individuals. Four qualitative and nine quantitative traits were evaluated, including leaf color, stem color, flower color, days to flowering, plant height, and leaf area. The F₂ population showed wide phenotypic variation. In the chi-square test for four qualitative traits, two traits (color of leaf reverse side, color of flower) followed a Mendelian segregation ratio of 1:2:1. Heritability analysis revealed high values for days to flowering and leaf width. In contrast, traits such as number of florets and leaf length exhibited lower heritability, indicating a more substantial influence of environmental factors. Hierarchical clustering analysis grouped the parental lines into distinct clusters, revealing a diverse distribution of F₂ individuals across multiple groups. Some individuals closely resembled one of the parents, while others formed novel clusters, reflecting recombination and the emergence of new trait combinations. These findings underscore the genetic complexity underlying morphological traits in Perilla and highlight the potential of weedy accessions as valuable resources for breeding. The foundation established by this study will aid in developing new cultivars with desirable traits.