Biotechnological Approaches in Vegetable Crops by Nikhil Thakur

Biotechnological Approaches in Vegetable Crops by Nikhil Thakur

In the face of mounting global challenges such as climate change, increasing population pressure, and the need for nutritional security, the demand for resilient, high-yielding, and quality vegetable crops has never been more critical. Biotechnology offers transformative tools and strategies that complement traditional breeding methods, enabling precise, accelerated, and sustainable improvements in vegetable crops. This new two-volume set, Biotechnological Approaches in Vegetable Crops, offers an insightful exploration into the dynamic intersection of biotechnology and agriculture, with a specific focus on the cultivation and enhancement of vegetable crops. Authored by leading experts in the field, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advances, methodologies, and applications of biotechnological interventions in vegetable crop production.

Volume 1: Molecular Breeding Tools: From Basics to Breakthroughs covers foundational concepts and emerging technologies in the field of vegetable crop biotechnology. The chapters discuss topics from the importance and scope of biotechnology in vegetable crops to advanced molecular breeding techniques such as QTL mapping, marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and gene pyramiding. The first few chapters lay the groundwork with insights into the role of biotechnology and in vitro techniques, followed by an exploration of somatic embryogenesis and molecular markers. The volume then delves into mapping populations, association mapping, and various breeding strategies, including forward and reverse breeding, mutation breeding, etc. Each chapter combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications and recent developments to provide a holistic view of each topic.

Volume 2: Genomic Innovation: Genetic Engineering and Bioinformatics Approaches presents a focused exploration of modern molecular technologies shaping the future of vegetable research. It covers TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes) and eco-TILLING, which are efficient reverse genetics approaches used for allele mining without introducing foreign DNA and which offer valuable insights for discovering beneficial mutations and enhancing genetic diversity in breeding populations. Also covered are applications of cisgenesis, intragenesis, and transgenesis, giving a clear understanding of how genetic modifications are utilized to develop improved vegetable varieties with reduced biosafety concerns. The role of genetic engineering, gene cloning, and gene silencing (RNAi and antisense RNA) is also discussed in detail, showcasing their impact on developing disease-resistant and nutritionally enhanced crops. The volume also addresses biofortification, highlighting strategies to enrich vegetables with essential micronutrients through molecular interventions. A chapter is dedicated to regulatory frameworks and biosafety protocols, providing insight into the governance and safe release of genetically modified crops. Also explored is the digital era of breeding, focusing on Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and various omics approaches, which have accelerated gene discovery and trait mapping. Cutting-edge genome editing technologies, such as ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas, are presented as transformative tools for targeted crop improvement.

This two-volume compilation is an important reference for advancing knowledge and encouraging innovation in the field of vegetable biotechnology. The convergence of multiple authors and perspectives enriches this compilation, offering readers a nuanced understanding of biotechnological interventions in vegetable crops.

Nikhil Thakur, PhD, is renowned for his exemplary academic career, he has made significant contributions to the field of horticultural research. Dr. Thakur has authored book chapters, research reviews, research papers, research abstracts, and scientific articles published in esteemed books, journals, and magazines of scientific repute. Additionally, he has written a book and actively participated in several national and international conferences, training sessions, and workshops. Dr. Thakur serves as a reviewer for various prestigious international journals and holds life memberships in multiple international scientific organizations. He has also successfully qualified several national competitive examinations, including ASRB-NET and ICAR-JRF. His academic excellence has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Award of Excellence for achieving the highest academic rank in the MSc program at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, during the institution’s 36th Foundation Day celebrations in 2020. Dr. Thakur’s dedication to research and education continues to inspire and contribute to the advancement of horticultural sciences.

Jasdeep Kaur, PhD, is pursuing his PhD in Vegetable Science at the College of Agriculture CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Palampur, India. She is currently working on stability analysis and association mapping for fruit yield traits in capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.). She has authored book chapters, research reviews, research papers, research abstracts, and scientific articles published in esteemed newspaper and magazines of scientific repute. She has presented and participated in numerous state, national, and international conferences, seminars, and workshops. She is also a reviewer for various international journals and holds life memberships in various international organizations.