INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCE RESEARCH
IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is a vital cereal crop in arid and semi-arid regions, known for its resilience and nutritional value. However, it is susceptible to various diseases, including smut, caused by the fungus Tolyposporium penicillariae, which significantly impacts yield and quality. This preliminary study aims to differentiate healthy and smut-contaminated grains of pearl millet using fluorometric analysis, a technique that measures the fluorescence emitted by substances when excited by light.

The study employed fluorometry to detect variations in the fluorescence spectra of healthy and smut-contaminated grains. Samples of both healthy and infected grains were collected, prepared, and subjected to fluorometric analysis under specific excitation wavelengths. The emitted fluorescence was recorded and analyzed to identify distinct patterns corresponding to each sample type.

Initial results indicated notable differences in the fluorescence intensity and spectral patterns between healthy and smut-contaminated grains. Healthy grains exhibited a characteristic fluorescence profile, while infected grains showed altered spectra, potentially due to changes in biochemical composition caused by the fungal infection. These variations can be attributed to the presence of fungal metabolites, altered protein structures, and changes in phenolic compounds and other secondary metabolites within the contaminated grains.

The findings suggest that fluorometric analysis could serve as a rapid, non-destructive diagnostic tool for detecting smut contamination in pearl millet. Further research is needed to refine the technique, validate the results across a broader range of samples, and explore its applicability in field conditions. This study paves the way for developing effective monitoring and management strategies to ensure the quality and safety of pearl millet, thereby supporting food security and agricultural sustainability in regions dependent on this essential crop.