Expert discuss genome evolution at PAU seminar

The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, hosted Bikram S. Gill, internationally acclaimed wheat cytogeneticist and genomic expert, for an engaging seminar on ‘Molecular Cytogenetics, Herbicide Resistance and McClintock’s Dynamic Genome’.

The session provided valuable insights into molecular cytogenetics, gene copy number variation, chromosomal restructuring and the role of extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) in plant adaptation and crop improvement.

Gill highlighted the impact of ring chromosomes on herbicide resistance in major weeds and elaborated on their role in genome dynamics and sustainable weed management strategies. His pioneering research shed light on adaptive evolution in plants and its implications for breeding programmes.

The seminar was a landmark event, as it was the first academic session conducted at the newly inaugurated Darshan Singh Brar Symposium Hall at the Gurdev Singh Khush Institute of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Biotechnology. The venue was dedicated to Darshan Singh Brar, a distinguished cytogeneticist, in recognition of his contributions to plant genetics.

The session saw active participation from faculty, researchers and students, engaging in thought-provoking discussions on genome evolution, plant breeding advancements and novel approaches to weed management. Yogesh Vikal, Director of the School of Agricultural Biotechnology, moderated the session.