Transcriptomics Analysis for the Detection of Novel Drought Tolerance Genes in Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis) ^†

Abstract

Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis) is a perennial stress tolerant desert shrub that has oil containing seeds and inhabits the Sonoran desert in the southwest of the United States and northwest Mexico. It has attracted a growing worldwide interest for multi-purpose uses. However, the most attractive characteristics of Jojoba are the richness of the oil content of the seed and the superior stress tolerance of the plant. Little has been done towards Jojoba genetic improvement. The exploration of jojoba genetic resources will define a molecular and biochemical fingerprint for jojoba and will aid sustainable crop commercialisation define. In this research, we aim to establish a reference genome database for Jojoba, which will help to facilitate crop improvement. Besides, the contribution to reveal the molecular background of its outstanding drought tolerance using transcriptional profiling during a water stress. RNA sequencing will be performed for samples collected under moderate and severe stress. The genetic database of jojoba will help to reveal the genetic mechanism of response and identify the genes responsible for the drought tolerant phenotype of this crop. Application of this knowledge will support the researchers, farmers, and the Jojoba industry.