Bioscience Methods 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 23-32 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/bm 26 3.2 Genomic selection (GS) strategies for yield improvement Genomic selection (GS) represents a paradigm shift in plant breeding, particularly for complex traits controlled by multiple genes with small effects. Unlike MAS, which focuses on individual loci, GS uses genome-wide marker data to predict the performance of breeding lines. This method has shown great promise in accelerating genetic gains and improving yield in crops like sweet potato. By incorporating high-throughput phenotyping and genotyping, GS can enhance the accuracy of selection and reduce the breeding cycle time (Merrick et al., 2022; Sandhu et al., 2022). The integration of machine learning and advanced statistical models further refines the prediction accuracy, making GS a powerful tool for sweet potato yield improvement (Jannink et al., 2010). 3.3 CRISPR-based gene editing for targeted trait enhancement CRISPR-Cas9 technology has revolutionized the field of genetic engineering by providing a precise and efficient method for genome editing. In sweet potato breeding, CRISPR-based gene editing can be used to introduce or modify specific genes associated with desirable traits such as increased yield, disease resistance, and improved nutritional content. This technology allows for targeted modifications without the introduction of foreign DNA, making it a more acceptable approach for developing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) (Dheer et al., 2020; Ahmad et al., 2022). The application of CRISPR in sweet potato breeding holds great potential for creating high-yield cultivars with enhanced traits in a relatively short time frame (Sandhu et al., 2022). 3.4 RNA interference (RNAi) in modifying metabolic pathways RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool for silencing specific genes and has been widely used to study gene function and develop crops with improved traits. In sweet potato, RNAi can be employed to modify metabolic pathways that influence yield and quality. For instance, silencing genes involved in starch biosynthesis or degradation can lead to increased starch content and improved tuber quality. RNAi has also been used to enhance resistance to pests and diseases by targeting genes essential for pathogen survival or virulence (Ahmad et al., 2022). The use of RNAi in sweet potato breeding offers a versatile approach to fine-tune metabolic pathways and achieve desired phenotypic outcomes (Dheer et al., 2020). By leveraging these advanced molecular breeding techniques, sweet potato breeders can develop high-yield cultivars more efficiently and effectively, addressing the growing demand for this important staple crop. 4 Trait-Based Molecular Approaches for High Yield Cultivars 4.1 Yield-related traits and their molecular regulation Yield-related traits in sweet potatoes, such as tuber size, number, and overall biomass, are critical for achieving high yield cultivars. Molecular regulation of these traits involves identifying and manipulating key genetic markers associated with high yield. Advanced plant breeding tools, including genetic mapping and transgenic approaches, have been instrumental in pinpointing these markers. Techniques such as TALENS, CRISPR-Cas9, RNAi, and cisgenesis have been successfully employed to enhance yield-related traits by modifying specific genes responsible for tuber development and growth (Ahmar et al., 2020; Ahmad et al., 2022). 4.2 Improvement of photosynthetic efficiency through gene modification Photosynthetic efficiency is a pivotal factor in determining the overall yield of sweet potato cultivars. Enhancing this efficiency can be achieved through gene modification techniques that optimize the photosynthetic pathways. Recent advances in genome editing, particularly using CRISPR-Cas9, have enabled precise modifications in genes that regulate photosynthesis. These modifications can lead to improved light absorption, carbon fixation, and overall energy conversion efficiency, thereby boosting the yield potential of sweet potato plants (Ahmar et al., 2020; Ahmad et al., 2022). 4.3 Molecular approaches to increase storage root development The development of storage roots is a key determinant of sweet potato yield. Molecular approaches to enhance storage root development include the use of genetic selection and mutagenic breeding to identify and propagate desirable traits. Additionally, whole-genome sequencing and functional genomic tools have been employed to understand the genetic basis of storage root formation. By targeting specific genes involved in root development, researchers can manipulate these pathways to increase the size and number of storage roots, ultimately leading to higher yields (Gebhardt, 2013).
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