Scientists Sequence Wild Barley Genome; Paving the Way for Climate-Resilient Crops

Scientists from Murdoch University in Australia and the Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences in China have unveiled the first chromosome-scale genome of the wild barley species Hordeum brevisubulatum, known for its exceptional tolerance to alkaline and saline soils.

The study, published in Nature Plants, identified the wild barley's critical genetic adaptations, including the duplication of stress-response genes responsible for its efficient nutrient intake under alkaline stress. These genes doubled in biomass and offered improved yields in harsh conditions when overexpressed. The team also discovered that a fungal-derived gene previously known for disease resistance was found to reduce oxidative stress in saline-alkaline environments.

The international research team assembled the high-quality genome of H. brevisubulatum and re-sequenced 38 accessions across seven related species. From their findings, the team developed a new hexaploid crop, Tritordeum (AABBII), by replacing wheat's ‘D' subgenome with H. brevisubulatum's I genome. This new crop showed a remarkable 48% increase in nitrate uptake and a 28% increase in grain yield under stress compared to conventional wheat.

For more details, read the news article in Murdoch University News.