Researcher Huda Subhi Ali successfully defended her master's thesis in Agricultural Biotechnology at Palestine Technical University – Kadoorie (PTUK).
Her thesis, entitled “Genetic Variability in Wheat Genotypes Based on Root System Architecture and Molecular RAPD Markers,” was conducted at the Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center (BERC) laboratories, under the joint supervision of Dr. Yamen Hamdan from PTUK and Prof. Mohammed S. A. Shtayeh from BERC. A grant from BERC financially supported the student and her research.
Huda’s research centered on the in vitro evaluation of genetic diversity in root system architecture among 77 bread wheat lines from CIMMYT's wheat germplasm, assessed at the seedling stage. Additionally, the study explored genetic diversity in these wheat genotypes using RAPD molecular markers, along with seminal root anatomical, morphological, and physiological traits.
The study effectively demonstrated significant genetic variability among wheat genotypes based on root system architecture and morphological, anatomical, physiological, and RAPD molecular markers. This highlights the critical importance of conserving and utilizing this genetic diversity.
Moreover, the research identified correlations between RAPD markers and specific root system characteristics, suggesting the potential for marker-assisted selection to enhance wheat breeding efforts to improve adaptation and performance.
The findings from this research lay a foundational understanding for future studies on the genetic basis of root system development in wheat. This knowledge aims to contribute to developing more resilient and high-yielding wheat cultivars, meeting the global demand for this essential crop.
The thesis was supervised by Dr. Yamen Hamdan from PTUK and Prof. Mohammed S. A. Shtayeh from BERC. The examination committee included Dr. Rana Majed Jamous and Prof. Mazen Salman.
