Legume Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 315-322 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/lgg 316 2 Genetic Basis of Carob Domestication 2.1 Key traits selected during domestication The domestication of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua) has involved the selection of specific traits that enhance its utility as a food and fodder source. Domesticated carob genotypes, such as 'Etli' and 'Sisam', exhibit superior pod traits compared to their wild counterparts, including higher soluble solid content and increased levels of sugars like fructose, glucose, and sucrose (Gübbük et al., 2010). These traits are likely selected to improve the nutritional and commercial value of the carob pods (Lin et al., 2023). In contrast, wild genotypes tend to have better seed traits, such as a higher seed-to-husk ratio, which may have been less prioritized during domestication. 2.2 Molecular markers for domestication studies Molecular markers, such as Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and microsatellites, have been instrumental in studying the domestication of carob (Wang et al., 2014; Zhou and Chen, 2024). Over 1 000 microsatellite genotypes and 3 557 SNPs have been used to delineate carob evolutionary units and assess genetic diversity across the Mediterranean basin (Baumel et al., 2021). These markers help differentiate between wild, seminatural, and cultivated populations, providing insights into the genetic changes associated with domestication (Sedivy et al., 2017; Bayer et al., 2021). The use of RADseq data has further enabled the identification of nuclear and cytoplasmic loci, which are crucial for understanding the genetic basis of domestication. 2.3 Comparative genomics with wild relatives Comparative genomics between domesticated carob and its wild relatives reveals significant insights into the domestication process (Glazko, 2018). The genetic diversity within carob populations suggests multiple origins of domestication, with domesticated varieties often arising from locally selected wild genotypes. This pattern is consistent with other domesticated species, where genomic analyses have shown that domestication often involves the selection of specific genomic regions associated with desired traits, while maintaining gene flow with wild populations (Flink et al., 2014; Frantz et al., 2015). Such studies highlight the importance of conserving genetic resources from both wild and domesticated populations to ensure the sustainability and resilience of carob cultivation (Tetik et al., 2011; Chen, 2024). 3 Industrial Applications of Carob 3.1 Carob in the food industry Carob has gained significant attention in the food industry due to its versatile applications and nutritional benefits (Brassesco et al., 2021). The seeds of the carob tree are a source of locust bean gum (LBG), a galactomannan used extensively as a stabilizer and thickening agent in various food products (Benito-Vázquez et al., 2024). Carob pods are also processed into flour, powder, and syrup, which are utilized in the production of a variety of foods and beverages (Table 1). These products are valued for their high fiber content and the presence of beneficial microconstituents such as phenolic compounds and vitamins, despite their high sugar content (Gioxari et al., 2022). The carob's flavor and sweetening properties make it a popular ingredient in the flavor and sweet industry, where it is used to enhance the taste and nutritional profile of food products. 3.2 Carob in non-food industries Beyond its applications in the food industry, carob also holds potential in non-food sectors. The carob tree's resilience to drought and salinity, along with its deep root systems, makes it an ideal candidate for reforestation projects in arid and degraded areas, helping to combat soil erosion and desertification. Additionally, the carob tree's ability to act as a CO2 sink contributes to mitigating global warming effects, highlighting its environmental significance. The metabolomic analysis of carob pods has revealed a rich profile of bioactive compounds, including tannins and flavonoids, which could be explored for use in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics (Farag et al., 2019; Ikram et al., 2023). 3.3 Potential for bioeconomic applications The genetic diversity and adaptability of carob make it a promising candidate for bioeconomic applications. The carob tree's genetic resources, characterized by distinct genetic pools and diverse phenotypic traits, offer
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==