The PRIN project “Reconstructing the domestication process of the white lupin (Lupinus albus) in the Mediterranean basin using pangenome graphs” aims to explore the evolutionary history of this important legume crop through advanced genomic approaches.

By combining multiple whole-genome assemblies into a comprehensive pangenome graph, the project seeks to reveal the genetic mechanisms underlying the domestication of white lupin — a process that began nearly 4,000 years ago in the Mediterranean region.

Funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) under the PRIN 2022 programme, this two-year project involves four leading research units:

• University of Ferrara (Principal investigator)

• Marche Polytechnic University

• University of Padova

• Institute of Plant Genetics - Polish Academy of Sciences - Poznan
  
  

The results will contribute to the improvement of lupin breeding, food sustainability, and the conservation of plant genetic resources in Europe.