Genetic Improvement of Jatropha curcas L. Through Conventional and Biotechnological Tools

Abstract

Jatropha curcas (Jatropha), an oilseed plant with a multitude of uses, is considered as a potential biofuel crop. The limited information of this species, low and inconsistent yields, lack of high genetic variability, and susceptibility to biotic and abiotic stresses hamper selective breeding. J. curcas is a shrub/tree and genetic improvement and domestication are time-consuming when compared to annual food crops. Most of the programs are dependent upon the germplasm available in undomesticated condition, and the wish list for genetic improvement of the crop is exhaustive. The crop has a history of 500 years and is a new entrant for domestication. Research progress witnessed during the past few years indicate the possibility for widening the genetic base of J. curcas through conventional breeding methods complemented with mutation breeding, interspecific hybridization, and biotechnological tools. Genetic diversity analysis using molecular markers unarguably confirmed the Central American and Mexican regions as the treasure troves of J. curcas genetic diversity which need to be exploited in varietal development and hybrid breeding programs. Mutation breeding coupled with functional genomics and gene editing techniques will accelerate the development of novel germplasm with desirable traits. In interspecific hybridization, crosses involving J. integerrima were extensively studied necessitating the need for exploitation of other economically important species for trait incorporation. With a modest estimate of 6-8 years of concerted efforts, improved germplasm with desired attributes could be made available, and such improved germplasm can be used to replace the already established plantations with unproductive yields in a phased manner.