Molecular Breeding Approaches for the Development of Climate-resilient Abiotic Stress Tolerant Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Abstract

A vital cereal crop grown in arid and semi-arid countries, pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) is essential to livelihoods and food security in these areas. Subsequently, abiotic stressors including heat, salinity, drought, and nutrient shortages severely limit its output. To enhance stress resilience and yield stability, molecular breeding approaches have emerged as powerful tools for genetic improvement. This review comprehensively explores recent advancements in molecular breeding strategies aimed at improving abiotic stress tolerance in pearl millet. Important techniques are covered in detail, including selection for genomic traits (GS), genome-scale association research (GWAS), quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, and marker-assisted selection (MAS). Additionally, the combination of omics technologies—such as transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—has led to a better understanding of the genes and pathways that are responsive to stress. The role of transgenic approaches and genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, in developing stress-tolerant pearl millet genotypes is also highlighted. Additionally, this review emphasizes the significance of wild relatives and landraces as valuable genetic resources for breeding climate-resilient cultivars. Despite remarkable progress, challenges such as limited genomic resources, genotype-environment interactions, and regulatory constraints remain. Addressing these limitations through interdisciplinary research, coupled with advancements in bioinformatics and high-throughput phenotyping, will accelerate the development of resilient pearl millet varieties. Ultimately, integrating molecular breeding with sustainable agricultural practices will be instrumental in ensuring the long-term adaptability and productivity of pearl millet under changing climatic conditions.