Creating large 60Co-γ populations for functional genomics and breeding in wheat
Abstract
Wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) serves as a critically important staple crop worldwide, and mutation breeding through Cobalt-60 ( 60 Co-γ) radiation has been widely adopted as an effective strategy for genetic improvement. In this study, ten wheat cultivars from Shandong, Henan, and Hebei were subjected to 60 Co-γ irradiation to develop an M 2 mutant population comprising 10,350,000 lines. Systematic screening M 2 mutant population under natural conditions identified 158 freezing-tolerant mutants, 441 saline-alkali-tolerant mutants, and >5,000 mutants with changed yield or quality traits. This population represents a valuable genetic resource for collaborative research and provides a powerful platform for functional genomics studies and breeding applications.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Plant Genetic and Mutation Studies
Wheat and Barley Genetics and Pathology
Genetics and Plant Breeding
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Frontiers in Plant Science
- Publisher
- Frontiers Media SA
- Volume
- 16
- Pages
- 1760299–1760299
- Publication date
- 26 January 2026
- Language
- EN