Translocations from Leymus racemosus have been introgressed into sets of CIMMYT differential genetic backgrounds since the first phases of BNI research activities. Several T3BL.3NsbS translocation lines have been initially tested and are being distributed to partners globally for broader evaluation.

The translocation is now transferred into recent high-performance CIMMYT spring wheat, aiming to provide BNI as a new trait in conjunction with climate resilience traits, broad-spectrum disease resistance, and ensuring nutritional and end-use quality. Molecular markers specific for T3BL.3NsbS have been developed through genotyping-by-sequencing deployed in marker-assisted backcrossing. To achieve a greater range of BNI translocation sources, additional chromosome regions are explored that contribute to BNI activity.

Translocations in different chromosomes other than chromosome 3B, translocations from Leymus mollis, and translocations shorter than the current T3BL.3NsbS are investigated. BNI varieties with a shorter translocation are expected to have better agronomic performance than those with a larger chromosome translocation, while BNI activity will need to be confirmed.