Legume Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 140-151 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/lgg 140 Review and Progress Open Access The Role of Rhizobium in Legume Crop Enhancement: Genetic Insights and Practical Applications Chunxia Wu, Lijun Qiu Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: lijun.qiu@cuixi.org Legume Genomics and Genetics, 2024 Vol.15, No.3 doi: 10.5376/lgg.2024.15.0015 Received: 10 May, 2024 Accepted: 12 Jun., 2024 Published: 23 Jun., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Wu and Qiu, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Wu C.X., and Qiu L.J., 2024, The role of Rhizobiumin legume crop enhancement: genetic insights and practical applications, Legume Genomics and Genetics, 15(3): 140-151 (doi: 10.5376/lgg.2024.15.0015) Abstract Legume-rhizobium symbiosis represents a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture due to its ability to biologically fix atmospheric nitrogen, significantly reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. This study explores the genetic mechanisms underpinning this symbiotic relationship and highlights practical applications for crop enhancement. this study provides an in-depth overview of the biological basis of rhizobium-legume symbiosis, including the mutual benefits and mechanisms of nitrogen fixation, and discuss the specificity of different Rhizobiumspecies. Our study delves into the molecular genetics of Rhizobium, the genetic basis of nodule formation in host plants, and advances in genomic techniques such as sequencing and gene editing. This study also examines the genetic diversity and adaptability of Rhizobium strains, their response to environmental stressors, and the co-evolutionary processes with legume hosts. The practical applications section focuses on breeding for enhanced symbiosis, development and use of Rhizobium inoculants, integrated pest management, and sustainable agricultural practices. Case studies and field trials illustrate the success of these strategies in various legume species, providing empirical support for the discussed concepts. Finally, this study addresses the challenges and future directions for research and policy, emphasizing the need for advanced genetic engineering, long-term ecological studies, and effective farmer education and extension services. This study underscores the potential of leveraging Rhizobium genetics for legume crop enhancement, promising improved agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. Keywords Legume-rhizobium symbiosis; Nitrogen fixation; Genetic engineering; Sustainable agriculture; Crop enhancement 1 Introduction The symbiotic relationship between legumes and rhizobia has been a subject of scientific inquiry for over a century. This mutualistic association, where rhizobia fix atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, is crucial for the growth of legumes in nitrogen-poor soils. The discovery of this symbiosis has significantly advanced our understanding of plant-microbe interactions and has had profound implications for agricultural practices (Wang et al., 2012; Wang et al., 2018). Legumes are a vital component of sustainable agriculture due to their ability to improve soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation. This process reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which are costly and environmentally damaging. Legumes also play a crucial role in crop rotation systems, enhancing soil health and productivity (Oldroyd et al., 2011; Wang et al., 2020; Yang et al., 2021). The economic and ecological benefits of legumes underscore the importance of understanding and optimizing their symbiotic relationship with rhizobia (Chakraborty et al., 2022; Hawkins and Oresnik, 2022). This study aims to delve into the genetic and molecular mechanisms that underpin the legume-rhizobium symbiosis. By examining the specific genes and signals involved in the establishment and maintenance of this symbiosis, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of how these interactions are regulated at the genetic level. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for developing strategies to enhance the efficiency of nitrogen fixation and improve legume crop yields. In addition to exploring the genetic aspects, this study will highlight practical applications of rhizobium-legume symbiosis in agriculture. This study will discuss how insights from genetic studies can be applied to develop more effective inoculants, improve crop management practices, and ultimately enhance legume crop performance. By integrating genetic insights with practical
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