INTEGRATING GENOMICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO ENHANCE ABIOTIC STRESS TOLERANCE IN SESAME (SESAMUM INDICUM L.)

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an ancient oilseed crop cultivated for its rich oil, protein, and essential nutrients. However, changing environmental conditions due to climate change poses significant challenges to sesame production. Abiotic stresses, such as salinity and drought, can severely impact sesame yield and productivity. Integrating genomic approaches and biotechnology in sesame breeding offers significant promise for developing resilient sesame cultivars with enhanced abiotic stress tolerance. GWAS (Genome-wide association studies) have identified genes and QTL (quantitative trait loci) associated with drought and salinity tolerance in sesame. The genomic selection offers several advantages over traditional breeding methods, enabling the efficient development of stress-tolerant sesame cultivars. Biotechnological tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology, allow for precise modification of specific genes, facilitating the introduction of desirable traits into sesame cultivars. The integration of these approaches offers promising opportunities for the targeted improvement of tolerance against abiotic stresses in sesame. However, addressing ethical and regulatory considerations surrounding the use of biotechnology in plant breeding will be vital for ensuring the safe and responsible application of these technologies. This review paper provides an overview of integrating genomic approaches and biotechnology in sesame breeding programs focused on improving drought and salinity tolerance and discusses the potential for developing resilient sesame cultivars in the face of climate change.