IISER Bhopal researchers conduct first genome-sequencing of Jamun

The findings of the IISER Bhopal's researchers have been published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Plant Science.

Bhopal-based Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER Bhopal) have completed the first-ever genome sequencing of the Jamun tree. It is scientifically called ‘Syzygium cumini’. The Jamun plant is known for its medicinal properties, fruits, and ornamental value.

The research team sequenced the S.cumini genome from the world’s largest tree genus Syzygium using Oxford Nanopore and 10x Genomics sequencing technologies to understand the genomic and evolutionary basis of the plant's medicinal values, stated a press release of IISER Bhopal.

While conducting the genome sequencing of Jamun, the researchers team discovered the presence of glucosides, another class of metabolites that prevent the conversion of starch into sugar explaining how the plant possesses anti-diabetic value.

Dr. Vineet K Sharma, while highlighting the aim of this research, said, “This research aimed to gain new functional and evolutionary insights from the Jamun genome, which could be responsible for the wide range of pharmacological properties of this species conferred by the bioactive compounds that act as nutraceutical agents in modern medicine," as reported by Hindustan Times.

“Taken together, it is tempting to speculate that the adaptive evolution of major plant secondary metabolism pathways in S. cumini species confers unprecedented antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other pharmacological properties of this tree. Further, the whole genome sequence of S. cumini will facilitate future genomic, evolutionary, and ecological studies on the world’s largest tree genus,” Dr Sharma added.

The researchers' team was led by Dr Sharma. Their findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science.

Read more:

• Ukraine returned Indian FMGs allowed to complete course, 2 years CRMI, says Govt
• AMU: Final year MBBS student gets injured in firing