Recent advances on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic selection (GS); prospects for Fusarium head blight research in Durum wheat

Abstract

Purpose: Wheat is an important cereal crop that is cultivated in different parts of the world. The biotic stresses are the major concerns in wheat-growing nations and are responsible for production loss globally. The change in climate dynamics makes the pathogen more virulent in foothills and tropical regions. There is growing concern about FHB in major wheat-growing nations, and until now, there has been no known potential source of resistance identified in wheat germplasm. The plant pathogen interaction activates the cascade of pathways, genes, TFs, and resistance genes. Pathogenesis-related genes' role in disease resistance is functionally validated in different plant systems. Similarly, Genomewide association Studies (GWAS) and Genomic selection (GS) are promising tools and have led to the discovery of resistance genes, genomic regions, and novel markers. Fusarium graminearum produces deoxynivalenol (DON) mycotoxins in wheat kernels, affecting wheat productivity globally. Modern technology now allows for detecting and managing DON toxin to reduce the risk to humans and animals. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the roles played by GWAS and Genomic selection (GS) in the identification of new genes, genetic variants, molecular markers and DON toxin management strategies.

Methods: The review offers a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of the function of Fusarium graminearum virulence factors in Durum wheat. The role of GWAS and GS for Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) resistance has been well described. This paper provides a comprehensive description of the various statistical models that are used in GWAS and GS. In this review, we look at how different detection methods have been used to analyze and manage DON toxin exposure.

Results: This review highlights the role of virulent genes in Fusarium disease establishment. The role of genome-based selection offers the identification of novel QTLs in resistant wheat germplasm. The role of GWAS and GS selection has minimized the use of population development through breeding technology. Here, we also emphasized the function of recent technological developments in minimizing the impact of DON toxins and their implications for food safety.

Keywords: DON toxin; Fusarium graminearum; GS; GWAS; Triticum durum.