Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 49-59 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 49 Research Report Open Access Conventional Breeding vs. Genetic Engineering in Maize: A Comparative Study Jin Zhou, Limin Xu Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding author: limin.xu@hitar.org Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0006 Received: 17 Jan., 2024 Accepted: 23 Feb., 2024 Published: 05 Mar., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Zhou and Xu, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Zhou J., and Xu L.M., 2024, Conventional breeding vs. genetic engineering in maize: a comparative study, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(2): 49-59 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0006) 1 Introduction Maize (Zea mays L.), also known as corn, is one of the most important cereal crops globally, serving as a staple food for millions of people and a critical feedstock for livestock. Originating in Central America, maize has been domesticated and cultivated for thousands of years, leading to the development of numerous varieties adapted to diverse climatic and soil conditions. Its significance extends beyond nutrition; maize is also a key industrial crop used in the production of biofuels, bioplastics, and other value-added products. The crop's versatility and economic value underscore its importance in global agriculture and food security (Wilkes, 2007) Abstract This study explores the comparative aspects of conventional breeding and genetic engineering in maize, highlighting their respective achievements, limitations, and future prospects. Conventional breeding has a long history of success, utilizing methods such as mass selection, hybridization, and mutation breeding to develop high-yielding and nutritionally enhanced maize varieties like hybrid maize and Quality Protein Maize (QPM). However, these methods are often time-consuming and resource-intensive. Genetic engineering, including technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 and recombinant DNA, offers precise and rapid genome modification, enabling the development of traits such as pest resistance, herbicide tolerance, and enhanced nutritional content. Significant achievements, such as Bt maize and glyphosate-resistant varieties, demonstrate the potential of genetic engineering to improve yield and reduce chemical inputs. The integration of conventional breeding and genetic engineering approaches can maximize their benefits, combining genetic diversity and adaptability with precision and efficiency. Future research should focus on integrated breeding programs, leveraging genomic and phenomic data, sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing ethical and regulatory issues to ensure equitable access to advanced breeding technologies. Keywords Conventional breeding; Genetic engineering; Maize improvement; CRISPR-Cas9; Hybrid maize . The breeding of maize has evolved considerably over the centuries, employing both conventional and modern techniques to enhance desirable traits such as yield, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. Conventional breeding methods, including mass selection, backcrossing, and hybridization, have been the cornerstone of maize improvement. These methods rely on the natural genetic variation within maize populations and involve selecting individuals with favorable traits to propagate the next generation. Hybrid breeding, which involves crossing two genetically diverse inbred lines to produce a hybrid with superior traits, has been particularly successful in increasing maize yields and improving agronomic performance (Dreher et al., 2003). In recent decades, advances in genetic engineering have introduced new possibilities for maize improvement. Techniques such as transgenic modification and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing allow for the precise manipulation of maize DNA to introduce or enhance specific traits. Genetic engineering enables the transfer of genes between unrelated species, significantly broadening the genetic base available for crop improvement. This technology has been used to develop maize varieties with traits such as herbicide resistance, insect resistance, and enhanced nutritional content (Shou, 2003). This study aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between conventional breeding and genetic engineering in maize. It will explore the historical context and methodologies of each approach, evaluate their respective impacts on yield, stress tolerance, and disease resistance, and assess their roles in enhancing the nutritional quality
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