Role of omics and gene editing tools in development of abiotic stress tolerant carrots (Daucus carota L.)

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most important and highly nutritious vegetable crops consumed globally. Carrots are susceptible to several abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, heat and cold, which hinder their quality and yield. Moreover, climate change is aggravating these challenges; in recent years, scientists have made advancements in understanding the genomic architecture of carrots to combat abiotic stresses. Complete genomic sequencing of carrots has already been reported, which has facilitated the understanding of carrot genome. Genetic tools, including gene sequencing and gene expression investigations, have revealed ways to develop improved carrot cultivars that are more tolerant to abiotic stress. In-depth omics studies, including proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, have revealed many gene functions and markers associated with various developmental stages of carrot plants. Advancements in gene mapping have also led to the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs), which is beneficial for assisted breeding efforts. Additionally, gene editing tools such as the CRISPR/Cas technique and gene stacking approaches enable scientists to introduce desired traits in carrots with precise gene-targeting modifications. These techniques also have the potential to improve many agronomic traits in carrots. Hence, integrated omics and molecular techniques may lead to accelerated carrot improvement through an advanced understanding of stress biology, increasing carrot productivity and resilience for sustainable carrot production.