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0This research provides a comprehensive genomic map of the Brassica A genome by analyzing over 3,000 accessions of B. rapa, B. napus, and B. juncea. By constructing pan-blocks from multiple genome assemblies, the authors successfully traced the evolutionary origins of these crops to Central and West Asia. The study details three primary expansion routes across Eurasia, illustrating how geographic migration shaped the genetic diversity of modern oilseed and vegetable varieties. Crucially, the discovery of an ancient genomic inversion clarifies the distinct lineages of the A subgenomes in tetraploid species. The analysis also decodes the highly complex S-locus, identifying unique transposable element patterns that govern the plant’s self-incompatibility system. Ultimately, these findings offer a vital genetic resource for advancing Brassica breeding and understanding polyploid evolution.
References:
Cai X, Zhang Z, Zhang L, et al. Genomic analysis of 3,330 accessions provides insights into the evolutionary history and self-incompatibility locus of the Brassica A genome[J]. Nature Genetics, 2026: 1-9.
