Advanced breeding techniques in Brassica juncea L. for sustainable production under changing climate

Abstract

Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss. is an agronomically important crop cultivated worldwide as a valuable source of oil. It is a major source of edible oil in South Asia because of its high oil content, nutraceutical value, and balanced fatty acid contents. In addition to being considered a relatively hardy crop with high economic value, its productivity potential is restricted by susceptibility to various biotic and abiotic stresses, including diseases, pests, drought, heat, frost, and salinity. These constraints adversely affect yield, often leading farmers to move towards alternative crops. In this context, the use of advanced genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics approaches can provide molecular insight into the evolutionary history, genetic diversity and adaptive response of B. juncea under stress and at different developmental stages. A comprehensive understanding of its molecular architecture and advanced crop improvement strategies will culminate in the development of high-yielding, stress-resistant cultivars, facilitating sustainable mustard production under a changing climate.