Bioscience Methods 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 226-236 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 232 Figure 2 Principal component analysis biplot of genotype by quality traits of 135 QPM and non-QPM hybrids evaluated across six locations (Adopted from Amegbor et al., 2022) Image caption: Trypt_Pert: tryptophan; Prot: protein (Adopted from Amegbor et al., 2022) 6 Future Directions and Prospects 6.1 Advances in technology and emerging marker technologies The integration of genetic markers in maize breeding programs has been significantly advanced by recent technological innovations. One notable development is the genotyping by target sequencing (GBTS) platform, which offers high-throughput genotyping with high quality, flexibility, and affordability. This platform can handle a range of marker numbers, from a few to 45 000, through multiplex PCR and in-solution capture methods. The GBTS platform has demonstrated high consistency in marker genotypes and phylogenetic relationships, making it a reliable and cost-effective tool for marker-assisted breeding (Guo et al., 2019). Additionally, genomic selection (GS) has emerged as a powerful tool in maize breeding. GS uses genome-wide marker data to estimate breeding values, leading to increased genetic gains with fewer breeding cycles. The sophistication of high-throughput phenotypic, genotypic, and other -omic level data currently available allows for more accurate predictions of breeding values. This technology is particularly beneficial in developing superior maize inbreds and hybrids (Rice and Lipka, 2021). Moreover, advancements in molecular marker-assisted breeding have shown promise in improving maize production in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. These technologies have been used for DNA fingerprinting, genetic diversity analysis, QTL analysis, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) to address biotic and abiotic stresses, thereby enhancing the productivity and value of maize germplasm (Stevens, 2008). 6.2 Future challenges and solutions for marker integration Despite the promising advancements, several challenges remain in the integration of genetic markers into maize breeding programs. One major challenge is the need for cost-effective and scalable genotyping platforms that can be widely adopted by small- and medium-sized breeding companies and in developing countries. The GBTS platform addresses this challenge by offering a lower genotypic selection cost compared to phenotypic selection, making it an affordable option for marker-assisted breeding (Guo et al., 2019).
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