Wheat Biofortification: Utilizing Natural Genetic Diversity, Genome-Wide Association Mapping, Genomic Selection, and...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Human Nutrition
• Plant Genetics

Background:

• Micronutrient deficiencies pose significant health challenges, particularly in resource-poor regions.
• Wheat is a globally important staple crop, making its biofortification a high research priority for addressing malnutrition.
• Genetic variability for essential micronutrients (iron, zinc, selenium, calcium) exists in wheat's wild relatives and cultivated species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of genetic resources for grain micronutrient biofortification in wheat.
• To analyze the progress in breeding and releasing biofortified wheat varieties globally.
• To explore the potential of emerging technologies, such as genome editing, for enhancing wheat's nutritional value.

Main Methods:

• Systematic analysis of existing literature on genetic variation for grain micronutrients in wheat.
• Review of quantitative trait loci (QTLs)/genes regulating micronutrient accumulation.
• Assessment of the status and impact of released biofortified wheat cultivars.

Main Results:

• Significant natural genetic variation for micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Se, Ca) has been identified and utilized in wheat breeding.
• Forty biofortified wheat cultivars have been released for commercial cultivation in various countries.
• Understanding of QTLs/genes and genomic regions controlling micronutrient accumulation has advanced.

Conclusions:

• Wheat biofortification is a viable strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies.
• Leveraging natural genetic diversity and advanced breeding techniques is crucial for developing improved wheat varieties.
• Genome editing holds promise for further enhancing micronutrient content and bioavailability in wheat.