Plant Genetics Foundations and Advances

About the Book

Plant Genetics: Foundations and Advances presents a comprehensive and contemporary exploration of the genetic principles that govern plant diversity, adaptation, and evolution. The book systematically integrates classical genetic concepts with modern molecular and genomic approaches, offering a cohesive framework for understanding the genetic basis of plant systems :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.

Beginning with the historical and conceptual foundations of genetics, the text progresses through inheritance patterns, chromosomal behavior, and genetic variation, before advancing into molecular genetics, genetic mapping, and biotechnological applications. This structured progression enables readers to develop both conceptual clarity and analytical depth in plant genetics :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

The book places strong emphasis on modern tools and technologies, including genome sequencing, molecular markers, bioinformatics, and genome editing techniques such as CRISPR. It further explores advanced domains such as genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, and systems biology, bridging the gap between foundational knowledge and cutting-edge research :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

A key strength of this volume lies in its practical orientation. Chapters are enriched with real-world examples and applications in crop improvement, demonstrating how genetic principles contribute to addressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and sustainable agriculture. The integration of theory with application ensures relevance for both academic and applied research contexts :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

The book is designed to serve a wide audience, including undergraduate and postgraduate students, researchers, academicians, and professionals in plant breeding, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences. It aims to provide a solid foundation in plant genetics while encouraging innovation and critical thinking in plant science research.

Key Features

Comprehensive coverage from classical Mendelian genetics to modern genomics
Integrated approach linking foundational concepts with advanced molecular techniques
In-depth discussion of genetic mapping, molecular markers, and genome editing
Coverage of genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, and systems biology
Application-oriented content focused on crop improvement and agricultural sustainability
Real-world examples addressing food security and climate challenges
Structured progression for both academic learning and research application

Target Audience

This book is intended for students, researchers, academicians, and professionals in plant genetics, biotechnology, agriculture, and related life sciences. It serves as both a foundational textbook and a reference for advanced study and research.

Keywords

Keywords: Plant Genetics, Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Genetic Mapping, Molecular Markers, Genome Editing, CRISPR, Epigenetics, Transcriptomics, Systems Biology, Plant Breeding, Crop Improvement, Agricultural Biotechnology, Food Security, Sustainable Agriculture

Chapter	Title	Page
Chapter 1	Foundations of Plant Genetics	11
1.1	Introduction to Plant Genetics	12
1.2	Historical Milestones in Genetic Discovery	14
1.3	Mendelian Principles and Laws of Inheritance	18
1.4	Chromosomal Basis of Heredity	22
1.5	Genetic Variation and Mutation in Plants	28
1.6	Significance of Genetics in Modern Agriculture	31
	Chapter Summary	39
Chapter 2	Molecular Structure and Function of Genes	57
2.1	Structure and Composition of DNA and RNA	42
2.2	Gene Organization in Plant Genomes	46
2.3	DNA Replication, Transcription, and Translation	52
2.4	Gene Expression and Regulation in Plants	60
2.5	Mutation Mechanisms and DNA Repair	69
2.6	Molecular Markers and Genetic Polymorphism	73
	Summary	80
Chapter 3	Genetic Mapping and Molecular Tools	123
3.1	Principles of Linkage and Recombination	83
3.2	Genetic Mapping Techniques	85
3.3	Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Mapping	89
3.4	Molecular Marker Systems: RFLP, AFLP, SSR, SNP	92
3.5	Marker-Assisted Selection and Genomic Selection	96
3.6	Applications in Crop Breeding and Diversity Analysis	100
	Summary	106
Chapter 4	Genomics, Transcriptomics, and Epigenetics	165
4.1	Plant Genome Sequencing and Annotation	109
4.2	Comparative and Functional Genomics	110
4.3	Transcriptomics and Gene Expression Profiling	112
4.4	Epigenetic Mechanisms: DNA Methylation and Histone Modifications	113
4.5	Non-Coding RNAs and Gene Regulation	115
4.6	Systems Biology Approaches in Plant Genetics	117
	Summary	118
Chapter 5	Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Advances	120
5.1	Recombinant DNA Technology in Plants	121
5.2	Gene Cloning and Transformation Methods	121
5.3	Genome Editing Tools: CRISPR, TALENs, and ZFNs	123
5.4	Development of Transgenic and Gene-Edited Crops	124
5.5	Molecular Breeding and Trait Improvement	126
5.6	Ethical, Environmental, and Regulatory Considerations	126
	Summary	127
References	References & Bibliography	128

Rani, J. Jeline

Rani, J. Jeline, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Bishop Heber College (Autonomous), Vayalur Road, Puthur, Tiruchirappalli – 620017, Tamil Nadu, India. Dr. J. Jeline Rani is an accomplished academic and researcher in Botany, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Bishop Heber College, Trichy. She holds a B.Sc. from Lady Doak College (2000), a gold-medal-winning M.Sc. from The American College (2002), an M.Phil. from Thiagarajar College (2004), and a Ph.D. in Phytochemistry and Molecular Studies on Vanda spathulata from National College, Trichy (2025). Her research expertise lies in Phytochemistry and Molecular Biology, with a prolific record of 18 book chapters, 11 research papers, and 5 conference proceedings. Dr. Rani has earned several Best Presentation Awards at international conferences and has guided 14 M.Sc. dissertations. She successfully completed a minor research project (2023–2024) on the antidiabetic potential of Aristolochia indica L. and is an active member of professional bodies such as the Global Forum for Sustainable Rural Development (GFSRD).

Naz, Hena

Naz, Hena, Assistant Professor, Department of Botany, Patna Women’s College (Autonomous), Bailey Road, Patna – 800001, Bihar, India. Dr. Hena Naz is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in Cytogenetics, Crop Improvement, and Nanotechnology. She holds a Master’s degree in Cytogenetics and Crop Improvement, and her doctoral research focuses on the biosynthesis of nanoparticles, assessing their cytotoxicity in plants and their antimicrobial properties against human pathogens. Dr. Naz has published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals and has shared her findings at various national and international conferences. Beyond her research, she is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring students through Student Research Programs (SRP) and Basic Scientific Research (BSR). Her current academic interests include the synthesis of nanoparticles using wild weeds and investigating their influence on animal metabolism, fostering a comprehensive appreciation for the applications of plant science.

Khadija Anjum

Khadija Anjum is an accomplished researcher and specialized content writer who holds a Master’s degree in Botany with a focus on Cytogenetics. Her scientific research investigates the intersection of nanotechnology and plant biology, specifically focusing on nanoparticles, plant-microbe interactions, and genetic variation. Her work explores how these factors influence disease prevalence, virulence, and pesticide resistance, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. Beyond the laboratory, Anjum is a creative communicator who leverages her expertise to promote public awareness on health and environmental sustainability. An avid reader and photographer, her insatiable curiosity for the natural world drives both her academic inquiries and her creative endeavors.

Sindhu Govindaraj

Govindaraj, Sindhu, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute (Deemed to be University), Periyar E.V.R. High Road, Maduravoyal, Chennai – 600095, Tamil Nadu, India. Sindhu Govindaraj is an Assistant Professor and dedicated researcher whose work focuses on the intersection of nanobiotechnology and therapeutic development. Her research expertise encompasses biomaterials, wound healing, phytochemistry, and the development of natural product-based therapeutics. Throughout her academic career, she has been actively involved in mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students in innovative research projects, fostering the next generation of biotechnologists. Govindaraj has contributed significantly to the scientific community through numerous publications and presentations at both national and international platforms. Her professional mission is dedicated to bridging modern biotechnological advancements with traditional knowledge systems to create sustainable and effective healthcare solutions.

R. Kowsalya

Kowsalya, R., Dean (i/c) International Relations, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), No. 12, Vembuliamman Koil Street, West Virugambakkam, Chennai – 600078, Tamil Nadu, India. Dr. R. Kowsalya is an esteemed academic leader and researcher with extensive expertise in Environmental Biotechnology and global academic governance. Her specialized research focuses on sustainable solutions for environmental challenges, including enzyme production, the decolorization of textile dyes, and comprehensive water quality analysis. A prolific scholar, she has published numerous research papers in peer-reviewed national and international journals and has actively mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students in groundbreaking research projects.

In her administrative capacity as Dean (i/c) of International Relations, Dr. Kowsalya is instrumental in expanding the global footprint of MAHER. She oversees international faculty and student exchange programs, organizes high-level international conferences, and spearheads the establishment of strategic partnerships through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with prestigious foreign universities. Her work is dedicated to fostering a collaborative global research environment and bridging the gap between academic innovation and international outreach.

Recommended Citation

APA 7th Edition

Rani, J. Jeline, Naz, Hena, Khadija Anjum, Sindhu Govindaraj, R. Kowsalya (2025). Plant Genetics Foundations and Advances. ISRI Press. doi:https://doi.org/10.51470/978-81-993807-9-0