A study from The University of Western Australia has identified protein biomarkers and physiological traits associated with heat tolerance in wheat, which provides a framework to support the development of climate-resilient cultivars.

The research, conducted by PhD candidate Agyeya Pratap under the supervision of Hackett Professor Kadambot HM Siddique and Associate Professor Nicolas L Taylor, investigated how wheat genotypes perform under short- and long-term heat stress. 

The study, published in Plant Stress, was conducted in collaboration with Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi.

Researchers compared heat-tolerant and heat-susceptible wheat genotypes and found that heat-tolerant genotypes maintain key functions such as photosynthesis, membrane stability and carbohydrate metabolism under heat stress.

“We are now able to identify specific protein biomarkers that help wheat thrive under heat stress,” Mr Pratap said.

The study highlights the importance of maintaining cellular and metabolic stability during reproductive stages, particularly under prolonged heat. 

It confirmed the value of integrating proteomic data with physiological and agronomic traits.

“This provides breeders with tools to target the traits that allow wheat to withstand rising temperatures,” Mr Pratap said.

The research, supported by The UWA Institute of Agriculture, provides a practical solution for breeders working to sustain wheat production in the face of climate change.

“Heat stress slashes wheat yields by reducing grain number, size, and overall biomass,” Professor Siddique said. “Since wheat is a staple for millions, protecting its productivity under rising temperatures is vital for global food security."

“This research marks a significant step in ensuring wheat can continue to meet global demand despite rising temperatures.”