Revitalization of small millets for nutritional and food security by advanced genetics and genomics approaches

Abstract

Small millets, also known as nutri-cereals, are smart foods that are expected to dominate food industries and diets to achieve nutritional security. Nutri-cereals are climate resilient and nutritious. Small millet-based foods are becoming popular in markets and are preferred for patients with celiac and diabetes. These crops once ruled as food and fodder but were pushed out of mainstream cultivation with shifts in dietary habits to staple crops during the green revolution. Nevertheless, small millets are rich in micronutrients and essential amino acids for regulatory activities. Hence, international and national organizations have recently aimed to restore these lost crops for their desirable traits. The major goal in reviving these crops is to boost the immune system of the upcoming generations to tackle emerging pandemics and disease infestations in crops. Earlier periods of civilization consumed these crops, which had a greater significance in ethnobotanical values. Along with nutrition, these crops also possess therapeutic traits and have shown vast medicinal use in tribal communities for the treatment of diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and gastrointestinal issues. This review highlights the significance of small millets, their values in cultural heritage, and their prospects. Furthermore, this review dissects the nutritional and therapeutic traits of small millets for developing sustainable diets in near future.

The role of phenomics and genomics in delineating the genetic basis of complex traits in millets

“…To address this, Puranik et al (2020) The genome sequencing of foxtail millet has provided valuable insights for improving the crop, making it an important model crop for functional genomics studies (Krishna et al 2022). The genome sequence of proso millet has provided essential genetic and genomic resources for improving its agronomic and nutritional traits, contributing to its potential as a promising variety (Pramitha et al 2023). The genome sequences of barnyard millet (Guo et al 2017) and proso millet (Zou et al 2019) are now available for researchers to actively work in the field of breeding.…”

HPTLC, Physicochemical and Phytochemical Analysis of Kodo Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.) Seeds with Special Reference to its Ethnopharmacological Review

“…Moreover, owing to the presence of lecithin, Kodo millet leaves are also used to cure stomach problems, joint pain and poisoning due to snakebites. [5] Baiga and Gond Adivasi indigenous communities of areas like Dindori of Madhya Pradesh are using this as food and medicine to fight growth retardation in children. They have a unique recipe for breakfast called Kodo patti bars (Supplementary Figure 2), combining groundnut, soy and kodo.…”

“…Kodo millet is not only nutritious but also have medicinal qualities that have been widely used by various indigenous societies to cure various morbidities. [5] Review of literature of its ethnopharmacological uses was also done, because its documentation is essential for creating awareness among the public and scientific community.…”

Role of Genome Sequences of Major and Minor Millets in Strengthening Food and Nutritional Security for Future Generations

“…Because of this, mainstream society is beginning to understand and appreciate the long-term benefits of millets. Millets are a nutritional powerhouse, and they are now referred to as "Nutri-Cereals" [7]. They are rich in protein, fiber, key vitamins, and mineral sources.…”