Applications of Artificial Polyploid Induction for Genetic Improvement of Plants

Polyploidy is the presence of more than two homologous sets of chromosomes. It has been one of the strong driving forces for higher plant evolution and also significant transforming tool for plant breeding programs. The review deals with the involvement of natural and artificial polyploids in enhancing traits and diversifying the species of plants. Artificial polyploidy induction (APPI) is mainly done using antimitotic agents like colchicine, trifluralin, and oryzalin. This has been very highly utilized for improving yield and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Besides, it has been utilized in aesthetic and economic traits in crops, medicinal, and ornamental plants. In many cases, polyploid organisms show better vigor, bigger organs, more biomass, and higher primary and secondary metabolite production. Ornamental plants tend to produce bigger flowers with better fragrance, color, and vase life. The chromosome doubling alters the phytochemical profile and increases the content of desired compounds in medicinal plants. Tissue culture methods for polyploid induction are efficient, and direct (chromosome counting, flow cytometry) and indirect (morphological and anatomical markers) techniques are available for ploidy determination. However, optimizing the type, dosage, and duration of antimitotic agents is critical for successful polyploid breeding. Reduced fertility, a frequent consequence of polyploidy, facilitates the production of seedless fruits, while genome doubling in hybrids restores fertility for further breeding applications. This paper reports recent advances in polyploidy research and its application in creating custom-designed plants with higher marketability, thus emphasizing the economic potential of APPI. Genetic diversity and advanced protocols in polyploidy manipulation provide great opportunities for improving plant yield, quality, and stress tolerance, which will ensure its place as a cornerstone of modern plant breeding.