Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) Genome – Pigeonpea
Why in News?
- The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed India's first fully annotated Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) reference genome of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan).
- The 'Asha' pigeonpea variety has been approved as the global reference genome, marking a major breakthrough in pulse genomics and climate-resilient agriculture.
About the T2T Genome
- Telomere-to-Telomere (T2T) sequencing is an advanced genome sequencing technology that produces a complete, gap-free DNA sequence from one end of a chromosome (telomere) to the other.
- Unlike conventional genome assemblies, T2T sequencing accurately captures highly repetitive and previously inaccessible genomic regions, including centromeres and telomeres.
- The technology provides the most comprehensive genetic blueprint of an organism, enabling precise identification of genes controlling important agronomic traits.
Key Highlights
- First in India: India's first fully annotated T2T reference genome for pigeonpea.
- Global Recognition: The 'Asha' variety has been accepted as the global reference genome for pigeonpea research.
- Developed by: ICAR through the National Institute for Plant Biotechnology (NIPB).
- Scientific Progress: Builds upon the world's first draft genome of a pulse crop (2011) and its improved version released in 2017.
Significance
- Enables rapid identification of genes associated with higher yield, disease resistance, drought tolerance, nutritional quality, and climate resilience.
- Accelerates marker-assisted breeding and genome-assisted crop improvement, reducing the time required to develop superior varieties.
- Supports India's objective of achieving self-reliance in pulses and improving national food and nutritional security.
- Strengthens genomic research under climate-smart agriculture and precision breeding initiatives.
About Pigeonpea
- Scientific Name: Cajanus cajan.
- Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae).
- It is India's second most important pulse crop after chickpea.
- A rich source of protein, dietary fibre, minerals, and essential amino acids.
- Being a leguminous crop, it fixes atmospheric nitrogen through symbiotic bacteria, thereby improving soil fertility.
