Maize Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 257-269 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 265 6.4 Climate change and sustainability Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity, necessitating the development of climate-resilient crops. Genomic research plays a crucial role in this endeavor by enabling the identification and manipulation of genes associated with stress tolerance. Advances in genomics, such as high-throughput sequencing and genome editing technologies, have facilitated the development of maize varieties that can withstand various abiotic stresses, including drought, heat, and salinity (Kole et al., 2015; Pourkheirandish et al., 2020; Thudi et al., 2020). For instance, genomics-assisted breeding (GAB) has been instrumental in enhancing the stress adaptation of maize by identifying and incorporating beneficial alleles from wild relatives and landraces (Kole et al., 2015; Zenda et al., 2021). Additionally, the integration of genomic data with phenotypic information through bioinformatics tools has accelerated the breeding of climate-smart maize varieties (Marsh et al., 2021). To enhance the sustainability of maize agriculture, several genomic strategies can be employed. One approach is the use of marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic prediction to accelerate the breeding process and improve the accuracy of selecting desirable traits (Abberton et al., 2015; Thudi et al., 2020). Another strategy involves the exploitation of crop wild relatives (CWRs) and underutilized species to broaden the genetic base and introduce novel alleles for stress tolerance and nutritional quality. Furthermore, the application of genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, allows for precise modifications of specific genes to enhance stress resilience and yield stability (Pourkheirandish et al., 2020; Zenda et al., 2021). The integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence in genomics can also optimize breeding programs by predicting gene-to-phenotype associations and tailoring plants for specific environmental conditions (Thudi et al., 2020; Zenda et al., 2021). 6.5 Integration with global food systems Maize genomics has the potential to significantly contribute to global food security by increasing crop yields and improving nutritional quality. Genomic tools enable the identification of genes controlling critical agronomic traits, which can be manipulated to develop high-yielding and nutrient-rich maize varieties (Pourkheirandish et al., 2020; Steinwand and Ronald, 2020). The development of climate-resilient maize varieties ensures stable production under adverse environmental conditions, thereby reducing the risk of food shortages (Abberton et al., 2015; Pourkheirandish et al., 2020). Additionally, genomics can facilitate the diversification of crop production by improving minor and newly established crop species, thus enhancing the overall resilience of the food supply (Abberton et al., 2015; Yuan et al., 2019). In the future, maize genomics will play a pivotal role in integrated global food systems by enabling sustainable intensification of agriculture. The convergence of low-cost genome sequencing, high-throughput phenotyping, and advanced bioinformatics will provide breeders with the tools needed to develop maize varieties tailored to specific environments and management practices (Marsh et al., 2020; Steinwand and Ronald, 2020). Moreover, the integration of genomic data with agronomic and climatic information will allow for the optimization of crop management strategies, further enhancing productivity and sustainability (Marsh et al., 2020; Rizzo et al., 2022). As genomic technologies continue to evolve, they will facilitate the rapid development of maize varieties that can meet the growing food demands while mitigating the impacts of climate change (Yuan et al., 2019; Pourkheirandish et al., 2020). 7 Concluding Remarks Maize genomic research has undergone significant transformations over the decades, driven by technological advancements and a deeper understanding of genetic mechanisms. Historically, maize has been a pivotal crop both in agriculture and as a genetic model organism. Early efforts in maize breeding were primarily focused on phenotypic selection and hybridization techniques. The advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has revolutionized our ability to link genotypic variations to phenotypic traits, thereby enhancing our understanding of maize genetics. The development of genetic transformation systems, including CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, has further accelerated functional genomics research and genetic improvement strategies. Additionally, the assembly of high-quality reference
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