Identification of iron and zinc responsive genes in pearl millet through genome-wide RNA-Seq approach

The identification of genes and key players involved in the Fe and Zn homeostasis under their deficiency will assist in crop biofortification breeding programs for the development of high Fe and Zn content lines. The study was carried to understand the molecular mechanism underneath the Fe and Zn deficiency in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) and identify the associated stress-responsive genes through RNA-Seq approach. The study provided information on the expression patterns of different pathway genes and their regulation in the uptake, transport of Fe and Zn micronutrients which can be employed in the genetic enhancement of micronutrients in the breeding program beside higher yields.