• UGI USER
  • Dec 06, 2023
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LANDMARK JAMUN GENOME SEQUENCING

Why in the News?

Researchers at IISER Bhopal achieved a significant milestone by completing the first-ever genome sequencing of the jamun tree (Syzygium cumini), known for its medicinal benefits.

About Genome Sequencing:

  • Genome sequencing is a scientific process that involves determining the precise order of DNA nucleotides within an organism’s entire genome.
  • This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the genetic makeup, structure, and functions of genes, enabling researchers to understand hereditary traits, identify diseases, and explore evolutionary relationships

Evolutionary Insights from the Study: 

  • Anti-Diabetic Properties :The presence of glucosides explained jamun’s anti-diabetic value by preventing starch conversion into sugar.
  • Antioxidant:Analyses identified 14 crucial genes responsible for terpenoid biosynthesis, contributing to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory traits.
  • Enhanced Stress Tolerance:The jamun genome revealed genes enhancing stress tolerance against various factors like weeds, insects, heat, salinity, and drought, showcasing remarkable adaptive evolution.
  • Pharmacological property:The study aimed to uncover the genomic secrets of jamun, revealing bioactive compounds responsible for its wide-ranging pharmacological properties, with implications for modern medicine.
  • Adaptive evolution: Advanced sequencing technologies uncovered a higher number of coding genes in jamun, indicating neopolyploidy events and gene duplications contributing to its adaptive evolution.

This groundbreaking research not only demystifies the jamun genome but also opens avenues for future studies in genomics.