Mutagenesis: A useful tool for the genetic improvement of the cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Abstract

Arachis hypogaea L., commonly known as groundnut, is a crop globally acknowledged for its agronomical significance. Biotechnologists around the world are working around various methodologies to improve the quality and quantity of the yield obtained from this crop to meet the global food and feed demand. Mutagenesis is the process of bringing about deliberate mutations in the plant DNA so as to acquire desired modifications. This technique has conventionally involved the use of physical agents like gamma rays or chemical agents like ethyl methyl sulfonate to bring about such random mutations. However, the dawn of CRISPR-Cas9 has enabled the accomplishment of desired mutations at specific genetic loci. Mutagenesis can serve as a sustainable solution to meet the global human demands. The present chapter discusses the various types of mutagens and their usefulness for the enhancement of the A. hypogaea L. harvest.