Biotechnology and Molecular Breeding in Cotton and Rice
Edited by
Prof. Dr. Tayyab Husnain
Release Date: December, 2024
Copyright: 2024
Pages: 75
ISBN: 979-8-9921800-9-1
Book Description
This book provides a thorough exploration of cutting-edge advancements in cotton and rice cultivation, with a strong focus on the role of genetic engineering and molecular biology in enhancing crop yield, quality, and resilience. Each chapter delves into the scientific foundations and practical applications of key genetic, physiological, and biochemical pathways essential for improving these globally important crops.
In Chapter 1: Cotton, the book examines cotton’s genetic and hormonal pathways, covering advancements in biotechnology and molecular breeding. It highlights the role of key genes, including SuS (Sucrose Synthase) and GhEXPA8, in fiber quality and yield. From genetic transformation techniques, such as Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, to an analysis of enzymatic roles in sucrose metabolism, this chapter reveals how genetic and physiological interventions can enhance cotton’s fiber strength, insect resistance, and overall agronomic performance. Discussions also extend to actin dynamics and their effect on cotton fiber quality, making this chapter a valuable resource for understanding the cellular mechanisms that drive cotton improvement.
Chapter 2: Rice addresses the global significance of rice and introduces innovative strategies for enhancing its resilience and productivity. The book explores genetic approaches for combating rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV), including the role of microRNAs in plant responses to biotic stress. This chapter further examines Bt gene deployment for insect resistance, challenges in field efficacy, and biosafety of transgenic Basmati rice lines. Essential topics such as cryopreservation techniques, transgene detection, and marker-assisted selection are discussed, along with agronomic traits like lodging resistance and maturity. With insights into field performance and environmental considerations, this chapter provides a balanced view of rice biotechnology and its future potential in sustainable agriculture.
Contents of this book are majorly based on the different studies conducted by the editor and his working groups over a period 30 years.
About Editor
With over 35 years of professional experience at the Center of Excellence in Molecular Biology (CEMB), University of the Punjab, Lahore, Prof. Dr Tayyab Husnain has served both as a leader and a scientist, bringing together a wealth of expertise in administration and molecular biology. Prof. Husnain spearheaded the development of Pakistan’s first double gene insect-resistant transgenic cotton varieties, including CEMB 33, CA12, and CEMB-66, as well as the first triple gene insect- and herbicide-resistant cotton varieties, CKC-1 and CKC-3. His contributions also include the creation of transgenic cotton with improved fiber characteristics, all of which have been patented and commercialized. As Director of CEMB, he led a team of over 300 researchers and students, fostering innovation that has produced 765 publications with an impact factor exceeding 2000 and 13 patents. His work has earned recognition through prestigious honors like the Izaz-i-Fazeelat (2005), Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (2008) for academic excellence and Satha Innovation Award (2017) for multigenic cotton development that significantly contributed to advancing both science and the agricultural economy in Pakistan.