Biotech for the Major Commercial Crops

Cotton, Maize, Potato, Sugarcane (with a special focus on PGPR)

Edited by

Prof. Dr. Idrees Ahmad Nasir

Release Date: November, 2024

Copyright: 2024

Pages: 165

ISBN: 979-8-9921800-6-0

Book Description
This book takes an in-depth look at the economic importance, challenges, and biotechnological innovations impacting major agricultural crops like cotton, maize, potatoes, and sugarcane. Spanning five comprehensive chapters, the text explores how genetic engineering, pest management strategies, and sustainable agricultural practices can enhance crop productivity, quality, and resistance.
The opening chapter discusses the economic significance of cotton production and the critical role of transgenic approaches in combating insect pests and weeds. It examines the benefits of Bt and glyphosate-resistant genes, as well as advancements in RNAi and viral resistance for tackling cotton leaf curl disease. The maize chapter subsequently covers pest and weed management, development of insect-resistant transgenics, and the potential of chitinase for sustainable pest control.
A full section is devoted to the role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in improving soil nutrient availability and crop yields across various agricultural systems. The text characterizes phosphate-solubilizing bacteria and explores their applications for enhancing sugarcane growth, alleviating salinity stress, and supporting sustainable practices.
The potato chapter explores RNA silencing strategies and genetic engineering for achieving viral immunity, while also addressing mechanisms and innovations in disease resistance more broadly. Finally, the sugarcane segment explores genetic engineering for disease and virus resistance, herbicide tolerance, and optimizing sucrose production and sugar isomerization through microbial applications.
Featuring the latest research and case studies, this comprehensive volume equips readers with a thorough understanding of how biotechnology and sustainable agriculture can address the mounting challenges facing major crop production worldwide.
About Editor
Prof. Dr. Idrees Ahmad Nasir is a distinguished scientist and researcher with over 25 years of experience in advancing agricultural research and operational optimization across national and international fields. Known for his strategic insight and dedication to research-driven innovation, Dr. Nasir has a unique ability to translate scientific vision into impactful, actionable strategies that address the needs of both national and regional agriculture. As a leading investigator, he has pioneered and implemented innovative programs that have contributed significantly to the development of new products, enhancing agricultural outcomes in Pakistan. Dr. Nasir’s expertise extends to aligning research and operational efficiencies with the evolving challenges of the agricultural sector, leveraging skilled resource planning and process improvements to drive success.