Regresar

Banana genetic improvement through biotechnological tools in Ecuador: regulation and perspective

Abstract:

Banana and plantains (Musa spp.) play a vital role in Ecuador’s agricultural landscape. Bananas are particularly significant for export markets, while plantains contribute significantly to local food security. The productivity of these crops faces various challenges, such as biotic stress from issues like black leaf streak disease (Pseudocercospora fijiensis) and Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (Foc TR4). Additionally, the looming threat of climate change introduces abiotic stress factors like flooding and drought, further impacting plant productivity. Addressing these challenges requires strategic interventions, with genetic improvement emerging as a key approach. Conventional breeding in Musa spp. faces obstacles like cycle period, sterility, and polyploidy. However, alternative methods, such as genetic transformation and gene editing, offer promising solutions. This article explores the research and regulatory landscape in Ecuador concerning the genetic transformation and gene editing of Musa spp. The Biotech Research Center at the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral has already established plant tissue culture, gene identification through transcriptome/genome analysis, and Agrobacteriummediated transformation. Currently, efforts are underway to develop a gene editing platform for banana genetic enhancement. This platform aims to address various issues, including resistance to black leaf streak and Foc TR4, drought tolerance, and biofortification. The discussion will primarily focus on biotechnological tools applicable within Ecuador’s regulatory framework.