Exploring the interaction between root architecture and functional traits in Camellia sinensis genotypes under drought conditions

Title : Exploring the interaction between root architecture and functional traits in Camellia sinensis genotypes under drought conditions

Abstract:

The increasing impacts of climate change have made drought a growing threat to tea (Camellia sinensis), a crop traditionally cultivated in humid regions. This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between root system development and functional traits (antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content) in different tea genotypes under drought stress. In vitro root development was evaluated in selected genotypes, and architectural parameters such as root length, surface area, and number of lateral branches were measured. Leaf tissues obtained from the same genotypes were analyzed for antioxidant activity and total phenolic content was determined. Initial findings indicate that some genotypes exhibiting stronger root development may also possess higher antioxidant capacity. These results provide valuable insights for both the identification of drought-tolerant genotypes in tea breeding programs and the development of functionally enhanced tea products. Overall, the study offers a holistic approach that integrates genetic, morphological, and biochemical indicators to support sustainable tea production.

Biography:

Macide Burcu Timur completed my B.Sc. in Biology and M.Sc. in Horticulture at Çukurova University, and subsequently earned my Ph.D. in Botany/Molecular Genetics at Mersin University, where my research focused on the molecular characterization and developmental biology of selected plant taxa. In my TÜBİTAK-funded postdoctoral project, he investigate abiotic stress adaptation by developing DNA markers associated with coleoptile and root architectural traits in diverse barley germplasm. My experience at the Tekfen Agriculture R&D Center further strengthened my expertise in molecular breeding, marker-assisted selection, speed-breeding systems, and integrative phenotyping approaches within national and international crop improvement programs.