Muhammad Usman Yaqoob
Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan
*Corresponding author: musmanyaqoob3@gmail.com
The evolution of mung bean, from its ancient domestication to the forefront of genetic and genomic advancements, illustrates a remarkable journey of agricultural and scientific progress. Originating as a crucial crop in early agricultural societies, mung bean has undergone significant transformations driven by both traditional breeding practices and modern technological innovations. This review provides a comprehensive overview of mung bean’s evolution, highlighting the transition from ancient selection methods to contemporary genetic and genomic approaches. It explores the historical domestication process, the development of diverse varieties through classical and modern breeding techniques, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies such as high-throughput phenotyping, next-generation sequencing, and gene-editing tools. These advancements have not only enhanced our understanding of mung bean genetics but have also led to the creation of improved varieties with traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and increased nutritional quality. Despite these achievements, challenges such as genetic diversity and sustainable practices persist, requiring ongoing research and innovation. The review concludes by emphasizing the potential of emerging technologies and collaborative efforts in shaping the future of mung bean research and contributing to global food security.