Molecular Basis of Dormancy in Wheat: A Path to Enhancing Crop Resilience and Productivity: a review article

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum.) is one of the most important cereal crops in the world and a staple food for billions of people. Despite this, wheat production is hindered by several factors such as climate change, pest incidence and the decrease of arable land. Molecular dormancy, a poorly understood but critical feature of wheat, is key to seed vigour and yield. This review further delves into molecular dormancy in wheat which could be a significant target for modulating crop resilience and productivity. This review covers the genetic and epigenetic basis of dormancy in wheat, including an insight into the regulatory networks behind it. Focus on environmental signals and signalling pathways that activate or release dormancy of seeds or plants in wheat/respectively Knowledge of the molecular basis of dormancy presents exciting avenues for crop improvement, including the modification of germination timing and the development of stress-resilient crops in a sustainable manner. Such approaches can transform wheat production to meet the demands of climate variability, new pests and diseases, and shifting global food requirements.