TILLING by sequencing (TbyS) reveals mutations in flowering control genes that are associated with altered plant architecture in Mungbean (Vigna radiata(L.) R. Wilczek)

Mutation is prerequisite for creating new variation in crop plants. This variation forms the basis for any crop improvement program. In this study, a population of 3774 mungbean M(1)mutant plants were generated using 0.7% of ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS). For TILLING by sequencing, 768 M(2)families were sequenced for three different candidate genes responsible for altering plant architecture in mungbean. In total, five exon residing mutations were identified, among them three mutations each inGIGANTEA(GI),RAMOSUS(RMS) andTERMINAL FLOWER1(TFL1) were found to be deleterious and altering the protein function based on SIFT analysis. Through morphological characterization, we confirmed the potential role of each mutation in altering mungbean plant architecture to develop an ideal plant type to increase the yield potential. Additionally, mutants with desirable traits such as increase in number of branches, and terminal and late flowering were selected from this study and advanced to further generation, as well as we are planning to pyramiding all three mutation in single genetic background that could contribute potentially towards developing high yielding mungbean genotypes with ideal plant type.

Automated summary

Mutation is essential for creating new variations in crop plants, as seen in a study involving mutated mungbean plants. Specific gene mutations were found to alter plant architecture and potentially increase yield. Selected mutants with desirable traits are being further studied for potential contribution in developing high-yielding mungbean genotypes.