Induced Mutagenesis using Gamma Rays: Biological Features and Applications in Crop Improvement

Abstract

Induced mutagenesis has emerged as an essential field of plant breeding to address global food security challenges, offering tools to enhance crop productivity, resistance, and nutritional value. Among the mutation induction tools, the physical mutagen such as gamma rays holds promise for efficient mutation induction. Gamma rays, a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation, possess unique characteristics that enable them to penetrate plant tissues and induce genetic mutations. The biological effects are influenced by various factors, including the source, type of radiation, dose rate, absorbed dose, and the sensitivity of the tissues and organs. Gamma rays have been successfully applied to various plant species, producing novel superior mutants for cultivation. This paper explores the different aspects of gamma irradiation, including the radiation facilities, the biological effects of gamma rays on plant species, and the potential applications to generate genetic diversity and unlock desirable trait improvement in crop plants. The paper also showcases successful examples of high-yielding mutants developed through gamma-ray mutagenesis and their impact on agriculture. The potential approach of plant mutagenesis offers to address challenges for plant improvement for sustainable and resilient food production.