Kabuli Chickpea Research Articles

Physicochemical, techno-functional, and thermal properties of Kabuli chickpea's aquafaba extracted by optimized microwave-assistive process

Aquafaba, a liquid by-product from the soaking and cooking of legumes, is often discarded in canning processes despite its rich protein, carbohydrate content, and functional properties. This study investigates the impact of microwave irradiation pretreatment on the extraction efficiency and the physicochemical, techno-functional, and thermal properties of Kabuli chickpea aquafaba. The findings revealed that increased microwave irradiation time and power led to a reduction in foaming ability and extraction efficiency but significantly enhanced the soluble protein content, density, dry matter, and foam stability of aquafaba. Optimal extraction was achieved with 5 min of irradiation at 900 W, yielding the highest extraction efficiency (175.3 %), protein concentration (1779.12 mg kg-1), density (1.019 g/mL), dry matter (4.11 %), foaming ability (341.21 %), and foam stability (49.56 %). Thermogravimetric analysis and FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed that microwave pretreatment improved the thermal stability of aquafaba without altering its chemical structure. Microwave-assisted extraction improves the quality and functionality of aquafaba, offering a sustainable alternative to waste disposal in the food industry. While the initial investment in microwave technology may be high, it transforms aquafaba from a waste by-product into a valuable resource, leading to significant profitability for canning industries. Given the high techno-functional, physicochemical, and thermal properties of aquafaba, it appears to be a suitable alternative to more expensive ingredients like egg whites and a promising substitute in vegan products.

Evaluation of Kabuli Chickpea Genotypes for Tropical Adaptation in Northern Australia

Chickpea is one of the economically important legume crops adapted for winter season production in tropical climates. This study evaluated the physiological, morphological, and biochemical traits of eight Kabuli chickpea genotypes in an Australian tropical environment. The result revealed significant differences between genotypes for seed emergence, plant height, primary shoots, leaf number, leaf area index, gas-exchange parameters, seed yield, carbon discrimination (Δ13C), and natural abundance for nitrogen fixation. Among the tested genotypes, AVTCPK#6 and AVTCPK#19 exhibited late flowering (60–66 days) and late maturity (105–107 days), and had higher leaf photosynthetic rate (Asat) (28.4–31.2 µmol m−2 s−1), lower stomatal conductance (gsw) (516–756 mmol m−2 s−1), were associated with reduced transpiration rate (T) (12.3–14.5 mmol m−2 s−1), offered greater intrinsic water-use efficiency (iWUE) (2.1–2.3 µmol m−2 s−1/mmol m−2 s−1), and contributed a higher seed yield (626–746 g/m2) compared to other genotypes. However, a larger seed test weight (>60 g/100 seed) was observed for AVTCPK#24, AVTCPK#8, and AVTCPK#3. Similarly, a high proportion (45%) of larger seeds (>10–11 mm) was recorded for AVTCPK#24. Furthermore, a higher %Ndfa in AVTCPK#6 (71%) followed by AVTCPK#19 (63%) indicated greater symbiotic nitrogen fixation in high-yielding genotypes. Positive correlation was observed between %Ndfa and seed protein, as well as between seed yield and plant height, primary shoots, leaf count, leaf area index, leaf photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate at pod filling stage, biomass, and harvest index. An inverse correlation between (Δ13C) and iWUE, particularly in AVTCPK#6 and AVTCPK#19, indicates greater heat and drought tolerance, required for high-yielding Kabuli chickpea production in northern Australia.

Effect of cooking conditions on chickpea flour functionality and its protein physicochemical properties.

Chickpea is an important food legume that usually undergoes various processing treatments to enhance nutritional value and functional properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different cooking conditions on physicochemical, structural, and functional properties of chickpea, especially its protein macromolecules. Kabuli chickpea seeds were processed by water cooking at different temperatures (63, 79, 88, and 96°C), followed by evaluating flour solubility, water-holding capacity (WHC), pasting property, as well as the total protein profile and fractionated protein distributions. Cooking treatments significantly decreased flour solubility (from 39.45 to 25.21g/100g flour) and pasting viscosity (peak and final viscosities, from 1081 to 300.5cP and 1323 to 532cP, respectively), while increasing WHC (from 0.862 to 1.144g H2O/g flour) of chickpea flour (p<0.05). These behaviors were enhanced by increasing cooking temperature. Meanwhile, cooking induced a significant change of chickpea proteins, modifying the albumin- and globulin-like fractions of chickpea protein to display glutelin-like behavior. The current study provides potential approaches for manipulating chickpea flour functionalities (e.g., solubility, viscosity, and WHC) to address the process and product challenges and favor product innovation.

Genome-wide association study in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) for yield and nutritional components

The increase in the global human population and the accompanying challenges in meeting nutritional needs amidst climate change are a worldwide concern. Widespread protein and micronutrient deficiencies contribute to a significant number of individuals experiencing malnutrition, leading to severe health repercussions. This issue can be addressed through genomics-assisted breeding, particularly in enhancing the nutritional profile of vital staple crops like chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Chickpea, beyond being a rich source of protein, provides a diverse nutritional spectrum encompassing carbohydrates, fats, and minerals. To explore and improve the genetic basis of nutritional traits in chickpea, a study was conducted using 93 kabuli-type single plant derived lines and five cultivars in 2018, 2022, and 2023. Genotyping by sequencing revealed a total of 165K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within this kabuli chickpea mini-core collection. After filtering for a minor allele frequency greater than 5%, 113,512 SNPs were utilized, distributed across eight chromosomes of the chickpea genome. Marker-trait associations were analyzed using genome wide association study, leading to the identification of 27 significantly associated SNPs from across all eight chromosomes linked to three seed nutritional concentrations and 100-seed weight. To unravel the molecular mechanisms governing seed protein, fiber, fat concentrations, and 100-seed weight, 31 candidate genes were determined within a 30 kb window size. This comprehensive approach holds promise for advancing crop breeding strategies to combat malnutrition and improve global food security.

Genotype by Environment (G × E) Interaction and Yield Stability of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties Across Agroecological Regions of Ethiopia

ABSTRACTGenotype by environment (G × E) interaction obstructs breeding by persuading variations in genotype performance. The aim of the present study was to determine the stability and yield performance of Desi and Kabuli chickpea varieties at different agroecological regions of Ethiopia, using different stability parameters. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated highly significant differences (p ≤ 0.01) for environments, genotypes, and importantly G × E interaction. AMMI and GGE biplot, AMMI's stability value (ASV) indicate that the Desi chickpea variety Teketay with mean yield of 2225.6 kg/ha (highest) and the variety Dimtu (1603.9 kg/ha) followed by Natoli with mean yield of 2004.9 kg/ha were found to be stable and adaptable to all environments. Similarly, from the Kabuli chickpea varieties, the variety Koka with mean grain yield of 2257.1 kg/ha (highest) and the variety Ejere with mean yield of 1997.6 kg/ha followed by Shasho (1798.59 kg/ha) were found to be stable and adaptable to all environments and should be promoted for production in chickpea‐growing areas of Ethiopia. In conclusion, identification of stable improved varieties for the different agroecological regions can assist the producers such as the farmers for the effective chickpea production. This leads to sustainable self‐sufficiency of food at the household and country level.

Participatory variety evaluation and selection of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties; an underpinning to novel technology uptake in northwestern Ethiopia

The productivity and production of chickpeas can be improved by using access-improved varieties that are suitable for the specific agroecology. However, the foundation for adopting new technology is participatory variety selection (PVS). Therefore, this study aimed to identify the best adaptively improved chickpea varieties in northwestern Ethiopia based on the preferences of farmers in Adet and Fogera Districts. The experiment consisted of ten improved chickpea varieties (Desi and Kabuli) that were evaluated in three replications using the mother baby trail approach, including on-station and on-farm evaluations. According to this trail, the highest grain yield among different types of chickpeas was observed in the varieties Teketay (2327.8 kg/ha), Dalota (2175.9 kg/ha), and Geletu (2123.6 kg/ha). Among the Kabuli types, Koka (2813.2 kg/ha) and Dhera (2325.7 kg/ha) showed the highest mean values of grain yield. At Adet location, the varieties Teketay (2772.2 kg/ha), Dalota (2459.7 kg/ha), and Geletu (2270.8 kg/ha) produced the highest grain yield. Similarly, Koka (3195.8 kg/ha), Dhera (2604.2 kg/ha), and Ejere (2601.4 kg/ha) were the top-yielding Kabuli chickpea varieties. Farmers from Adet location in Senkengha Kebele selected three Desi and three Kabuli chickpea varieties, namely Geletu, Teketay, and Dalota, in that order, as well as Koka, Hora, and Ejere. Meanwhile, farmers in Mousobo Kebele identified Koka, Dhera, and Hora from the Kabuli type as the best varieties. The varieties Geletu (1976.4 kg/ha), Dalota (1891.9 kg/ha), and Teketay (1883.3 kg/ha) had the highest mean grain yield at Fogera location. Similarly, in the Kabuli chickpea varieties, the highest mean value of grain yield was obtained from Koka (2430.6 kg/ha) followed by Hora (2097.2 kg/ha), and Dhera (2047.2 kg/ha). Farmers have chosen three of the best Desi and Kabuli chickpea varieties, i.e Geletu, Teketay, and Dalota, and Local check (Shasho) followed by Koka and Ejere at Fogera location, Geina Kebele in that order. In conclusion, the adoption and dissemination of new improved varieties for the new environment can assist the producers such as the farmers for effective chickpea production. This leads to sustainable self-sufficiency of food at the household and country level.

Evaluation of different Kabuli chickpea genotypes against Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in relation to biotic and abiotic factors.

The chickpea pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) is a significant insect pest of chickpea crops, causing substantial global losses. Field experiments were conducted in Central Punjab, Pakistan, to investigate the impact of biotic and abiotic factors on pod borer population dynamics and infestation in nine kabuli chickpea genotypes during two cropping seasons (2020-2021 and 2021-2022). The crops were sown in November in both years, with row-to-row and plant-to-plant distances of 30 and 15 cm, respectively, following a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results showed a significant difference among the tested genotypes in trichome density, pod wall thickness, and leaf chlorophyll contents. Significantly lower larval population (0.85 and 1.10 larvae per plant) and percent damage (10.65% and 14.25%) were observed in genotype Noor-2019 during 2020-2021 and 2021-2022, respectively. Pod trichome density, pod wall thickness, and chlorophyll content of leaves also showed significant variation among the tested genotypes. Pod trichome density and pod wall thickness correlated negatively with larval infestation, while chlorophyll content in leaves showed a positive correlation. Additionally, the larval population positively correlated with minimum and maximum temperatures, while relative humidity negatively correlated with the larval population. Study results explore natural enemies as potential biological control agents and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.

Structural and Functional Properties of Kabuli Chickpea Protein as Affected by High Hydrostatic Pressures

Structural and Functional Properties of Kabuli Chickpea Protein as Affected by High Hydrostatic Pressures

Composition, characterisation and emulsifying properties of natural nanoparticles in chickpea aquafaba for the formation of chilli oleoresin-in-water Pickering emulsions

This study aims to assess the compositional characteristics of British Kabuli chickpea aquafaba (AF) by conducting a comprehensive analysis from raw chickpeas to centrifugation fractions of AF and its potential use in forming and stabilising capsaicin-loaded O/W Pickering systems by exploiting the presence of self-assembled nanoparticles and proteins, which act as natural-coating agent. To this end, chickpeas were soaked (16 h, 4 °C, 1:4 chickpea: water) and pressure-cooked (20 min, 113 °C, 10 psig, 1:5 chickpea: water). The dry weight-based (DWB) compositions included total carbohydrate (76.33 ± 4.20%), protein (16.29 ± 0.43%), total phenolics (7.05–8.77 mg/g) and saponins (39.95 ± 0.89 mg/g), thus confirming the leaching of these components from seeds to AF. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis analysis revealed the presence of low MW proteins (≤∼16 kDa). The monosaccharides comprised d-glucose, d-galactose, l-arabinose, d-xylose and d-fructose. AF's particle size distribution revealed the occurrence of a bimodal population of nanoparticles (Dh ≤∼1000 nm and Dh ≤∼100 nm), further characterised by SAXS and TEM imaging. O/W emulsions were prepared with three chilli oleoresin types (capsicum, chilli birds' eye, and chilli ancho) by high-pressure homogenisation. The emulsion with the highest capsaicin content (capsicum oleoresin) was the most stable while the emulsion with the lowest capsaicin content (chilli ancho oleoresin) was the least stable. The presence of incidental nanoparticles and denatured proteins in AF was reasoned to account for the formation and stabilisation of chilli oleoresin-in-water Pickering emulsions, a newly offered explanation for its interfacial properties that will be pursued further in future studies.

Genetic Diversity and Inter-Relationships of Morpho-Agronomic Traits in Kabuli Chickpea Genotypes under Autumn Sowing Condition

Genetic Diversity and Inter-Relationships of Morpho-Agronomic Traits in Kabuli Chickpea Genotypes under Autumn Sowing Condition

Effect of Rhizobium, PSB and Mo on the Growth of Different Varieties of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulinum L.)

The present investigation was conducted with the objective of finding out the Effect of Rhizobium, PSB and Mo on the Growth of Different Varieties of Kabuli Chickpea. The study comprised six treatments of Inoculants I1-Control, I2-Rhizobium(Rh.)+phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) seed inoculation, I3-Molybdenum (Mo)@0.5 g AM* kg-1 seed, I4-Molybdenum @1.0 g AM kg-1 seed, I5-Rh.+PSB+Mo seed treatment @0.5g AM kg-1 seed, I6-Rh.+PSB+Mo seed treatment 1.0g AM kg-1 seed and two varieties V1-RVSJKG 102, V2-Phule G 0517, evaluated in Factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with three replications. The results of the present study revealed that the seed inoculation, I6Rh.+ PSB + Mo@1 g AM kg-1 seed was found to be the best among other inoculants with respect to growth in chickpeas, and Variety Phule G 0517 produced higher values of growth and yield attributing.

Response of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulinum L.) Varieties to Seed Inoculation with Biofertilizers and Supplementation with Molybdenum

The present investigation was conducted during rabi season 2016-17 at ICARDA, Amlaha farm, Sehore to study the supplementation of Mo along with Rhizobium + PSB inoculation in chickpea cultivars on biological nitrogen fixation and productivity. Research title “Response of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulinum L.) Varieties to Seed Inoculation with Biofertilizers and Supplementation with Molybdenum”. Six inoculants, with two kabuli chickpea varieties evaluated in Factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with three replications. The results of present study revealed The seed inoculation, I6Rh.+ PSB + Mo@1 g AMkg-1 seed was found best among other inoculants with respect to productivity and profitability in chickpea, and Variety Phule G 0517 produced higher values of growth and yield attributing .

Effect of Medium Type of Varieties and Organic Sources of Nutrients on Growth, Yield and Economics of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulium L.) under Bundelkhand Region

Background: The present investigation entitled “Effect of medium type of varieties and organic sources of nutrients on growth, yield and economics of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulium L.) under Bundelkhand region’’ was carried out at the Organic Research Farm at Karguaji, Institute of Agricultural Sciences Bundelkhand University, Jhansi U.P. India, during Rabi season of the year 2020-21.&#x0D; Methods: The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three organic sources of nutrients such as, Farm yard manure, Vermicompost and Poultry manure and comprising three varieties viz Pusa-1053, Shubhra and Ujjaval replicated thrice. All the organic sources and sowing methods significantly influence the all parameters like growth parameters viz., plant height, root length, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches per plant at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing and at maturity, fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight, dry shoot weight and dry root weight per plan, crop growth rate g/m2 /day-1 and moisture % were noticed at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing.&#x0D; Results: The nutrients management through organic source and different varieties significantly influenced the entire yield attributes viz, number of pod plant-1, pod weight plant-1, grain weight plant-1 and 100 seed weight were recorded with V1- PUSA-1053 and Nutrient sources M2- Vermicompost while M1- FYM and V2- Shubhra variety recorded lowest in all the parameters. Maximum seed yield per hector were also obtained through higher seed yield (25.43 kg/ha) was recorded in variety 1– (Pusa 1053) and higher seed yield (22.12 kg/ha) was found in M2 (Vermicompost application), respectively. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that above nutrients management through organic manures (vermicompost) and varieties PUSA-1053 resulted in better growth, higher yield attributes and better yield besides enhanced soil health as evident by post-harvest soil fertility status. It can be suggested as a cost effective combination for getting higher yield with greater quality of kabuli chickpea on organic farming system for the farmer’s Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh.

Yield, nitrogen, and phosphorus uptake, and biological nitrogen fixation in chickpea–flax intercropping systems in southern Saskatchewan

The interest in growing pulse crops and oilseeds together as intercrop combinations is increasing. However, little is known about nutrient dynamics in pulse–oilseed intercropping systems in western Canada, particularly the contributions from biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). Kabuli chickpea and brown flax were grown without added fertilizer as monocrops and as intercrops in mixed and alternate seed row configurations at sites located in the Brown (Central Butte, SK) and Black (Redvers, SK) soil zones in 2019 and 2020. Comparison was made of grain and straw yields, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) uptake of grain and straw, and proportion and amount of biologically fixed N contributed from the chickpea and transferred to the flax. The intercrop grain yield land equivalent ratio (LER) and N and P uptake LER values were at or above 1 for the four site-years, indicating benefit from intercropping in increasing total yield and crop N and P uptake from the land area. The proportion of N derived from BNF was not enhanced in this intercrop combination, but considerable biologically fixed N (8%–22%) was transferred from the chickpea to the flax during the growing season. This was associated with reduced depletion of soil N compared to monocrop flax in part due to the contribution of biologically fixed N in the chickpea–flax intercrop system.

Kabuli chickpea seed quality diversity and preliminary genome‐wide association study identifies markers and potential candidate genes

AbstractMalnutrition due to macro‐ and micro‐nutrient deficiencies is one of the major global health concerns, especially in developing countries. Using genomics‐assisted breeding to enhance the nutritional value of important crops such as chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) can help to address the problem. In this study, we conducted genome‐wide association studies to identify genes associated with protein, starch, oil, and fiber in chickpea to create resources to speed the breeding process. The USDA kabuli chickpea mini‐core of 88 accessions was genotyped using genotyped‐by‐sequencing, and 36,645 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified across the eight chromosomes of the chickpea genome. A genome‐wide marker‐trait analysis using the FarmCPU model was conducted to identify SNP markers that can enable marker‐assisted breeding for seed protein, fiber, oil, and starch concentrations. The most significantly associated markers for seed protein concentration (p = 8.82E‐12), starch (p = 2.79E‐12), fiber (p = 7.65E‐12), and oil (p = 1.37E‐08) were found on chromosomes 1, 2, 6, and 7, controlling 11%, 12%, 20%, and 16% of the phenotypic variation, respectively. Validation of the SNP markers in a broader set of plant genetic resources and environments will be needed to determine their usefulness in breeding for end‐use characteristics.

Phenolic, volatile compounds, antioxidant, and preservative activity of Argentinian Kabuli chickpea husk extract

AbstractThe objective of this study was to analyze the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of a chickpea husk polyphenol extract (CPE) obtained from Argentinian Kabuli chickpea and to evaluate its antioxidant effect on the chemical quality of sunflower oil. The polyphenol composition of CPE was analyzed by HPLC–ESI‐MS/MS. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH•, FRAP, ABTS•+, and chelating activity in ferrous ion tests. An accelerated oxidation test in sunflower oil was carried out by applying 0.01, 0.02, and 0.05% p/p CPE and comparing it with BHT (0.02%). Peroxide value, conjugated dienes, and volatile compounds were determined on sunflower oil samples. Twelve polyphenols were identified in the chickpea extract. The CPE showed in vitro antioxidant activity. The lowest doses (0.01% and 0.02%) protected sunflower oil more efficiently against oxidative deterioration than the higher level (0.05%). Chickpea husk extract has a good antioxidant effect on sunflower oil, which helps to preserve the quality properties of this product.

Influence of Boron and Molybdenum on Growth, Yield and Economics of Kabuli Chickpea (Cicer kabulium L.)

A Field experiment titled “Influence of Boron and Molybdenum on growth, yield and economics of Kabuli chickpea (Cicer kabulium L.)” was conducted during Rabi 2022-2023 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj (U.P). The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.4), low in organic carbon (0.58%), available N (225 kg/ha), available P (32.30 kg/ha) and available K (350 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments each replicated thrice. The result showed that growth parameters of Kabuli Chickpea viz., Higher plant height (68.49 cm), dry weight (24.34 g), number of nodules per plant (41.03) and the yield attributes namely pods per plant (14.29), seeds per pod (2.00), seed yield (3.29 t/ha), stover yield (3.36 t/ha) and harvest index (43.80%) were recorded significantly higher with application of treatment 9 Boron 2 kg/ha + Molybdenum 1.5 kg/ha. The higher net returns (122,782 INR/ha), gross return (165,977 INR/ha) and B:C ratio (2.84) was recorded with application of Boron 2 kg/ha + Molybdenum 1.5 kg/ha.

Drought priming modulates ABF, GRFs, related microRNAs and induce metabolic adjustment during heat stress in chickpea

Drought and high temperature stress may occur concomitantly or individually in succession causing cellular dysfunctions. Abscisic acid (ABA) is a key stress regulator, and its responsive genes are controlled by ABRE (Abscisic acid Responsive Element)-binding factors (ABFs)and G-Box Regulatory factors (GRFs). Here, we identify ABFs, GRFs and targeting miRNAs in desi and kabuli chickpea. To validate their role after drought priming and subsequent high temperature stress, two contrasting chickpea varieties (PBG1 and PBG5) were primed and exposed to 32 °C, 35 °C and 38 °C for 12, 6 and 2 h respectively and analyzed for Physio-biochemical, expression of ABFs, GRFs and MiRNAs, and GC-MS based metabolite analysis. To ascertain the ABF-GRF protein-protein interactions, docking studies were carried out between the ABF3 and GRF14. Genome-wide analysis identified total 9 & 11 ABFs, and 11 GRFsin desi and kabuli respectively. Their gene structure, and motif composition were conserved in all subfamilies and only 10 and 12 genes have undergone duplication in both desi and kabuli chickpea respectively. These genes were differentially expressed in-silico. MiR172 and miR396 were identified to target ABFs and GRFs respectively. Protein-protein interaction (ABF3 and GRF14) might be successful only when the ABF3 was phosphorylated. Drought priming downregulated miR172 and miR396 and eventually upregulated targeting ABFs, and GRFs. Metabolite profiling (GC-MS) revealed the accumulation of 87 metabolites in Primed (P) and Non-Primed (NP) Chickpea plants. Tolerant cultivar (PBG5) responded better in all respects however both severity of stress and exposure are important factors and can produce broadly similar cellular response.

Implications of Qualitative Traits Diversity for Future Chickpea Improvement and Conservation

Morphological characterization and diversity estimation are essential in plant breeding. In this endeavor, the researcher performed a visual assessment of 18 phenotypic DUS listed traits of 32 Kabuli chickpea genotypes in rabi 2021-2022. Nine traits were monomorphic, four traits were dimorphic, while five traits were polymorphic. Shannon’s diversity indices were estimated using Microsoft excel. The index ranged from 0.00 to 1.06, with a mean value of 0.36. Seed size (g) obtained the highest value of the 32 genotpyes, few were unique as they could be distinguished based on a single trait, while the majority were very closely related. Cluster analysis revealed that the 32 genotypes were grouped into two major clusters—similar genotypes concerning different traits clustered in the same clusters and vice versa.

Drought priming evokes essential regulation of Hsp gene families, Hsfs and their related miRNAs and induces heat stress tolerance in chickpea

Optimum temperature is crucial for plant's survival. During high temperature stress, heat shock proteins (Hsps) are expressed many folds essentially controlled by explicit heat shock factors (Hsfs).We have narrowed key HSPs, related HSFs and miRNAs regulated after priming with drought stress and consequent heat stress in chickpea. Firstly, we identified Hsf and Hsp gene families in desi and kabuli chickpea using Genome-wide analysis. Thereafter, selected Hsfs, Hsps and related miRNAs were analyzed using qRT-PCR in contrasting chickpea varieties (PBG1 and PBG5) after drought priming and exposing at 32 °C 24 hrs, 35 °C 12 hrs, and 38 °C 6 hrs. An interaction network between Hsfs and Hsps was generated. 18 & 17 Hsfs and 42 & 34 Hsps were identified in the desi and kabuli, respectively. The gene structure and motif composition of the genes were found to be conserved in all subfamilies. A total of 32 heat shock genes were found to have undergone duplication. Most of the CaHsf and CaHsp genes were differentially expressed on exposure to a combination of drought priming and heat stress in both in-silico and qPCR analysis. Targeted miRNAs expression was coordinated with the respective genes. miR156, miR166, miR319, miR171, and miR5213 were identified to be targets of sHsps, Hsfs, and Hsps. The protein-protein interaction revealed that CaHsp18.2 and CaHsp70 might be controlled by CaHsfsA1. Drought priming strongly correlated with less membrane damage and better leaf water content. Higher harvest index and root shoot ratio significantly indicated effectiveness of priming and essential role of Hsf and Hsp and related miRNAs in heat stress tolerance.