Genomics and Applied Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 223-234 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/gab 231 9.2 Future technologies for sequencing and gene analysis The rapid evolution of sequencing technologies is expected to further revolutionize cannabis genomics. High-throughput sequencing methods, such as PacBio single-molecule sequencing and Hi-C technology, have already been employed to generate high-quality reference genomes for wild-type varieties of Cannabis sativa, providing a comprehensive genetic resource for future research (Gao et al., 2020). These technologies enable the assembly of more complete and accurate genomes, which are essential for detailed genetic and functional analyses. Moreover, the integration of whole genome sequencing (WGS) with advanced analytical methods allows for the identification of low-frequency genetic variants associated with traits such as cannabis dependence, offering new insights into the genetic basis of complex traits (Gizer et al., 2018). 9.3 Integration of multi-omics approaches for Cannabis research The integration of multi-omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, is poised to significantly enhance our understanding of cannabis biology and its applications. Omics-based methods have already been utilized to study the molecular markers, microRNAs, and functional genes related to terpene and cannabinoid biosynthesis, as well as fiber quality in Cannabis sativa (Hesami et al., 2020). By combining data from multiple omics layers, researchers can gain a holistic view of the regulatory networks and metabolic pathways involved in the production of bioactive compounds. This comprehensive approach will facilitate the identification of key regulatory genes and pathways, ultimately leading to the development of improved cannabis cultivars with optimized traits for medicinal, industrial, and agricultural use (Vergara et al., 2016; Hurgobin et al., 2020; Adams et al., 2021). 10 Concluding Remarks Recent advancements in the field of Cannabis genomics have significantly enhanced our understanding of this multifaceted plant. The sequencing of the Cannabis sativa genome has revealed a complex genetic structure with substantial heterozygosity and a high level of genetic variation among different cultivars. Despite these advancements, current genome assemblies remain incomplete, with notable gaps and low-resolution ordering, which complicates the accurate annotation of genes. The application of multi-omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, has provided deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cannabinoid biosynthesis and other traits of interest. Additionally, in silico analyses have facilitated the design of genome editing tools, although technical challenges persist due to the highly polymorphic nature of the Cannabis genome. The progress in Cannabis genomics holds significant implications across various fields. In medicine, the ability to tailor cannabinoid profiles through genomic insights can lead to the development of therapeutic strains with specific medicinal properties. Industrial applications benefit from the genetic improvement of hemp cultivars for fiber and seed production, enhancing their agronomic traits. In agriculture, understanding the genetic diversity and biochemical pathways of Cannabis can aid in breeding programs aimed at improving yield, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. It also provides a theoretical basis for the synthetic biology of rare cannabinoids.The integration of biotechnological techniques, such as virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and genetic engineering, further expands the potential for functional gene studies and the production of high-value metabolites. To fully unlock the potential of Cannabis genomics, several key areas require further exploration. First, achieving high-quality, complete genome assemblies is essential to close existing gaps and enhance the resolution of genomic data. In addition, the use of functional genomics tools, such as CRISPR and virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), should be expanded to clarify the gene functions and regulatory networks involved in cannabinoid biosynthesis and other metabolic pathways. The integration of multi-omics approaches is also critical, as it enables the correlation of genotypic and phenotypic data, offering a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving important traits. Furthermore, conducting post-culture analyses of Cannabis phytochemistry and pharmacology will ensure the integrity and efficacy of in vitro propagated plants, particularly for pharmaceutical applications. Lastly, developing advanced breeding programs that leverage genomic data will
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