Background This research explores the efficacy of mutagenesis, specifically using sodium azide (SA) and hydrazine
hydrate (HZ) treatments, to introduce genetic diversity and enhance traits in three wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes.
The experiment entails subjecting the seeds to different doses of SA and HZ and cultivating them in the field
for two consecutive generations: M1 (first generation) and M2 (second generation). We then employed selective
breeding techniques with Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) markers to select traits within the wheat gene pool. Also,
the correlation between SCoT markers and specific agronomic traits provides insights into the genetic mechanisms
underlying mutagenesis-induced changes in wheat.
Results In the study, eleven genotypes were derived from parent varieties Sids1, Sids12, and Giza 168, and eight
mutant genotypes were selected from the M1 generation and further cultivated to establish the M2 generation. The
results revealed that various morphological and agronomical characteristics, such as plant height, spikes per plant,
spike length, spikelet per spike, grains per spikelet, and 100-grain weight, showed increases in different genotypes
from M1 to M2. SCoT markers were employed to assess genetic diversity among the eleven genotypes. The bioinformatics
analysis identified a correlation between SCoT markers and the transcription factors ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE3
(ABI3) and VIVIPAROUS1 (VP1), crucial for plant development, growth, and stress adaptation. A comprehensive
examination of genetic distance and the function identification of gene-associated SCoT markers may provide valuable
insights into the mechanisms by which SA and HZ act as mutagens, enhancing wheat agronomic qualities.
Conclusions This study demonstrates the effective use of SA and HZ treatments to induce gene diversity
through mutagenesis in the wheat gene pool, resulting in the enhancement of agronomic traits, as revealed by SCoT
markers. The significant improvements in morphological and agronomical characteristics highlight the potential
of mutagenesis techniques for crop improvement. These findings offer valuable information for breeders to develop
effective breeding programs to enhance wheat quality and resilience through increased genetic diversity. |
