Insights into the HLB defense responses in the Australasian citrus species
This study focuses on advancing our understanding of citrus genetics and enhancing cultivation practices. Our study explores the key relationships between cultivated citrus varieties and their Australasian relatives using population genomics. By analyzing phylogenetic relationships, Homozygosity by Descent (HBD), and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), we aim to uncover insights into their evolutionary relationships. Additionally, the study aims to examine defense mechanisms against HLB by analyzing genes linked to Diagnostic Variants (DVs), which are genetic changes (SNPs and InDels), and predicting their impacts on genes and proteins through a comparative study of Australasian citrus relatives and commercially grown citrus. Overall, our goal is to elucidate potential defense mechanisms against HLB in Australasian citrus relatives, thereby enhancing understanding for future breeding strategies.