Role Of Biotechnological Interventions in Improvement of Jatropha curcas L. : An Overview

Role Of Biotechnological Interventions in Improvement of Jatropha curcas L. : An Overview.

Jatropha curcas a multipurpose, drought resistant, perennial plant belonging to family Euphorbiaceae is known for biodiesel production. This paper highlights the role of biotechnological tools in the genetic improvement of Jatropha. In tropical and subtropical countries Jatropha is a potential biofuel crop. It can be grown in low to high rainfall areas either as a commercial crop or hedge. The limitations in available germplasm include lack of knowledge of the genetic base, poor yield, low genetic diversity and vulnerability to a wide array of insects and diseases. Great scope exists for genetic improvement through conventional methods, induced mutations, interspecific hybridization and genetic transformation. Reliable and highly efficient tissue culture protocols for direct and callus-mediated shoot regeneration and somatic embryogenesis are established for Jatropha which indicates potential for widening the genetic base through biotechnological tools. Assessment of genetic diversity using molecular markers disclosed low interaccessional variability in local Jatropha curcas germplasm. The current status and future prospects of in vitro regeneration, genetic transformation and the role of molecular tools in the genetic enhancement of the oilseed crop are discussed. This paper gives an overview on role of biotechnological techniques in the improvement of Jatropha plant emphasizing the benefit to the rural and urban economy....