Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 111-122 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 111 Feature Review Open Access Genomics-Assisted Breeding in Maize: Techniques and Outcomes Lan Zhou, Long Jiang College of Agriculture, Jilin Agricultural Science and Technology University, Jilin, 132101, Jilin, China Corresponding author: jlnykjxyjl@163.com Maize Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.3 doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0012 Received: 31 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 06 May, 2024 Published: 22 May, 2024 Copyright © 2024 Zhou and Jiang, 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 L., and Jiang L., 2024, Genomics-assisted breeding in maize: techniques and outcomes, Maize Genomics and Genetics, 15(3): 111-122 (doi: 10.5376/mgg.2024.15.0012) Abstract Genomics-assisted breeding (GAB) has revolutionized maize breeding by integrating advanced genomic techniques to enhance crop improvement. This study reviews the various techniques and outcomes of GAB in maize, focusing on the integration of genomic selection, genome optimization, and marker-assisted selection. Genomic selection leverages genome-wide marker data to predict breeding values, thereby increasing genetic gains with fewer breeding cycles. Genome optimization, incorporating doubled haploid production and computational simulations, aims to design optimized genomes for maximum genetic gain. Marker-assisted selection, facilitated by high-throughput genotyping platforms, provides cost-effective and efficient genotyping solutions. The outcomes of these techniques include the development of disease-resistant, climate-smart, and high-yielding maize cultivars. The integration of these genomic tools has transformed maize breeding from an empirical art to a data-driven science, promising significant advancements in crop productivity and sustainability Keywords Maize; Genomics-assisted breeding; Genomic selection; Genome optimization; Marker-assisted selection 1 Introduction Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most significant crops globally, serving as a crucial source of food, feed, and fuel. Its global production has seen a remarkable increase, with current annual production reaching approximately one billion tons (Yan and Tan, 2019). Maize's adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions and its high genetic yield potential have earned it the title "Queen of cereals" (Manoj et al., 2019). As a staple crop, maize plays a vital role in food security and the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide, particularly in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America (EIAR-Bako and Yadesa, 2021). The increasing global population, projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, underscores the need for continued advancements in maize production to meet the growing demand for food (Yan and Tan, 2019). Traditional maize breeding has faced several challenges, including the lengthy time required for developing new varieties and the limitations in achieving desired traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and nutritional quality (EIAR-Bako and Yadesa, 2021). Conventional breeding methods often involve extensive field trials and selection processes, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Additionally, the genetic diversity within maize populations can complicate the breeding process, making it difficult to achieve consistent improvements in yield and other agronomic traits (Lal et al., 2021). The need to address these challenges has driven the exploration of more efficient and precise breeding techniques. Genomics-assisted breeding has emerged as a promising approach to overcome the limitations of traditional breeding methods. This approach leverages advances in genomics technologies, such as genome sequencing, marker-assisted selection (MAS), and genomic prediction, to accelerate the breeding process and enhance the precision of trait selection (Thudi et al., 2020). By utilizing genomic information, researchers can identify and select for specific genes associated with desirable traits, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of breeding programs (Yang and Yan, 2021). Genomics-assisted breeding also enables the exploration of novel genetic variations and the development of crops with enhanced stress tolerance, nutritional quality, and yield potential (Thudi et al., 2020).
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