Genome wide association analysis of flavour related metabolites in tea germplasm [Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze] from Assam using a genotyping by sequencing strategy

This GWAS identified several genes that could be linked to flavour-related traits in tea plants. While some of these genes are not directly involved in biosynthetic pathways, their influence on metabolism under stress highlights their importance in the broader metabolic network and plant adaptability. The identified SNPs and candidate genes can be leveraged for marker-assisted selection, accelerating the breeding of tea plants with desirable traits. This information offers key insights into the genetic mechanisms behind flavour profiles and stress response, opening new avenues for future genetic enhancement and breeding approaches in tea cultivation.