Researchers from Russia and China have for the first time compiled a detailed genetic map of cold tolerance for domestic tea cultivars. Specialists managed to pinpoint the specific DNA regions responsible for the tea plants’ resilience to the cold. This was announced by the press service of the Subtropical Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
The investigation was conducted on a specially engineered variety. Utilizing whole-genome sequencing and genetic mapping techniques, biologists precisely identified which chromosome segments correlate with low-temperature endurance.
To reveal the most active genes, the plants underwent comprehensive stress trials. From several hundred candidates, scientists selected two understudied genes that demonstrated peak activity in response to cold. To verify their function, these genes were inserted into a model plant—tobacco—since directly altering the tea genome is technically challenging.
As part of the initiative, specialized molecular markers were also developed. For instance, regarding one crucial gene, CsLUX, researchers discovered a distinct variation—haplotype HapA. Its presence is closely linked to augmented cold resistance in both Chinese and Russian tea types. Geographic study indicated that this advantageous genetic variant is more frequent in populations historically growing in harsher climatic environments.
As noted by project head Lidiya Samarina, the established genetic map offers plant breeders globally fundamentally novel instruments. Employing these molecular markers will allow for the selection of the most promising seedlings at early stages, thereby reducing the time needed to breed new, more frost-resistant tea varieties by several years.
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