A genome-wide association study in sorghum identified 189 QTNs underlying root system architecture, highlighting a complex polygenic basis with candidate genes linked to hormone signaling, flavonoid biosynthesis, and stress adaptation.
Liu et al. found that though alkali stress disrupts growth, osmotic balance, and cellular stability in sorghum, the tolerant genotype Z14 counters these effects through stronger antioxidant defenses, enhanced osmotic regulation and rapid activation of stress-responsive genes and signaling pathways.
Linalool enhances sorghum resistance to Colletotrichum sublineola-induced anthracnose by activating salicylic acid–mediated defense signaling and directly inhibiting fungal growth through membrane disruption and oxidative stress.
Multi-locus GWAS of Ethiopian sorghum landraces revealed extensive genetic variation and key candidate genes underlying root architectural traits, providing valuable targets for breeding drought-resilient, water-efficient sorghum cultivars.
Mutations in the sorghum Waxy (GBSS) gene reduce amylose content and create value-added grain traits, and new genomic resources now enable more efficient breeding of waxy sorghum for food, feed, and biofuel applications.
SbWRKY51, a group II WRKY transcription factor in sorghum, enhances salt tolerance by maintaining ion and ROS homeostasis and promoting lignin biosynthesis to strengthen cell wall integrity under salt stress.
Hsu et al., identified distinct rhizosphere nitrogen cycling strategies across diverse Andropogoneae grasses, revealing genetic and ecological mechanisms that could inform more sustainable nitrogen use in cereal crops.
