In a breakthrough discovery, a team of scientists have successfully decoded the pangenome of oats.
Comprising over 70 scientists from 33 research institutions in 10 countries, the Western Crop Genetics Alliance (WCGA) was central to the achievement.
The WCGA, a partnership between Murdoch University and the Western Australian Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development (DPIRD), delivered the genome sequencing of four oat genomes, including Australian oat varieties Bannister, Bilby, and Williams.
WCGA director and Murdoch University’s centre for crop and food innovation research theme leader, professor Chengdao Li said that the discovery is a landmark achievement for Australia.
“This research, which sees the international oat research community come together to crack a particularly challenging genetic puzzle, transforms oats from a genetic ‘black box’ into a blueprint that will enable precision breeding for a healthier, more sustainable future,” he said.
“In an Australian context, the discovery of specific genetic signatures for adaptation, such as the 2A/2C gene translocation in Australian oats, shows how crops naturally evolve to suit different environments. With this knowledge, we can help Australian breeders select or develop varieties optimised for specific regions, and speed up the development of improved, more resilient oats.”
The research team, alongside the IPK Leibniz Institute, sequenced and analysed 33 oat lines, including cultivated varieties and their wild relatives. WCGA examined the gene expression patterns in six tissues and the development stages of 23 of the oat lines. The result was a pantranscriptome, revealing to the group which genes are active in different parts of the plant.
More unexpected findings were also concluded. Despite significant gene loss in one of the three subgenomes, oats remain highly productive due to other genes stepping in to compensate. The team also discovered structural rearrangements in the genome.
DPIRD broadacre systems executive director Dr Kaara Klepper commends the tremendous work of the research team.
“The decoded oat pangenome epitomises how modern genomics research is stimulating leaps in crop breeding, agricultural production, and human health by providing genetic resources to underpin new varieties with improved yields, better environmental adaption, and enhanced nutrition,” she said.
“DPIRD and Murdoch University scientists with the WCGA have made an important contribution to this global research, which applied locally will help WA growers produce high performance, resilient crops suited to a changing climate, boosting sustainability and profitability.”
