by: Giana Krisha Baturiano (Resistome)
The mystery shrouding the century-old breakthrough of Gregor Mendel on genetic inheritance has finally been divulged through the powerful tool of modern-day genomics. Renowned for his pivotal work by planting roughly 28, 000 plants to observe the patterns of inheritance of seven key traits in peas (Pisum sativum), Mendel has laid the foundation for classical genetics, but the genetic underpinnings of traits such as pod color, pod shape, and flower position remained elusive for over a century until recently.
The identification of the genes associated with these traits was challenging due to the complexity of the traits and the lack of comprehensive genomic resources. However, with the advent of high-throughput sequencing technologies and genome-wide association studies (GWAS), researchers have pinpointed specific loci and genes responsible for these traits.
Crucial to the process is the sequencing of the pea genome, alongside comparative genomics with related species like Medicago truncatula. This allowed Feng and colleagues (2025) to unravel key findings such as insertions and deletions of genes associated with pod color, pod shape, and flower position in P. sativum. For instance, the yellow pod color is associated with a 100-kb genomic deletion upstream of the chlorophyll synthase (ChlG) gene, which disrupts chlorophyll biosynthesis. Meanwhile, the parchmentless, edible-pod shape is due to the MYB gene with an upstream Ogre element insertion that contributes to secondary cell wall thickening. Lastly, a 5-bp exonic deletion in a co-receptor kinase gene is associated with the fasciated stem phenotype, characterized by deformed and multi-headed flower.
By understanding the genetic basis of desirable traits, breeders can develop crop varieties with improved characteristics, such as enhanced nutritional content, better yield, and increased resistance to environmental stresses. Moreover, this knowledge can aid in the conservation of plant biodiversity by identifying and preserving genetic variants that contribute to the resilience of crops.
The integration of classical genetics with modern genomic tools has not only elucidated the genetic basis of traits studied by Mendel but also opened doors for advancements in crop breeding and agricultural sustainability.
SOURCES
Feng, C., Chen, B., Hofer, J., Shi, Y., Jiang, M., Song, B., ... & Cheng, S. (2025). Genomic and genetic insights into Mendel’s pea genes. Nature, 1-10.
Kreplak, J., Madoui, M. A., Cápal, P., Novák, P., Labadie, K., Aubert, G., ... & Burstin, J. (2019). A reference genome for pea provides insight into legume genome evolution. Nature genetics, 51(9), 1411-1422.
This article was originally published in the GENEWS May 2025 Issue.
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