Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 34-44 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 39 2006). Genomic selection (GS) goes a step further by using genome-wide marker data to predict the breeding values of plants, thus enabling the selection of superior genotypes with greater accuracy and efficiency. GS has shown promising results in improving quantitative traits such as yield and stress tolerance in maize (Crossa et al., 2017; Rice and Lipka, 2021; Budhlakoti et al., 2022). 5.3 CRISPR/Cas9 and gene-editing technologies CRISPR/Cas9 and other gene-editing technologies offer precise tools for enhancing specific traits in fresh-eating maize. These technologies allow for the targeted modification of genes responsible for sweetness, nutritional value, and other desirable characteristics. By directly editing the maize genome, breeders can achieve improvements that would be difficult or time-consuming with traditional methods. Gene-editing technologies hold great potential for creating maize varieties with enhanced taste, nutritional content, and resistance to pests and diseases (Zhou and Hong, 2024). 5.4 Application of multi-omics approaches The integration of multi-omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, has significantly improved breeding efficiency in fresh-eating maize. These approaches provide comprehensive insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying important traits. For example, genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) has been used to discover and genotype single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in maize, facilitating genome-wide association studies and genomic selection (He et al., 2014). By combining data from different omics layers, breeders can better understand the complex interactions between genes and traits, leading to more informed selection decisions and faster development of superior maize varieties. 6 Case Studies 6.1 Development of high-sugar fresh corn varieties The development of high-sugar fresh corn varieties has been significantly advanced through modern breeding techniques. CRISPR-Cas technology, for instance, has been utilized to create new maize varieties with improved grain quality, including higher sugar content. This technology allows for precise modification of key genes involved in specific traits, making it a powerful tool for enhancing the sweetness of fresh-eating maize (Wang et al., 2022). Additionally, the integration of doubled haploidy and genomics-assisted breeding has further accelerated the development of these high-sugar varieties, ensuring they meet the desired quality standards for fresh consumption (Prasanna et al., 2020; Prasanna et al., 2021). 6.2 Utilization and global recognition of waxy corn in niche markets Waxy corn, known for its unique starch properties, has gained global recognition and is increasingly utilized in niche markets. The U.S. National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) has played a crucial role in providing access to diverse maize germplasm, including waxy corn, which has facilitated its breeding and utilization worldwide. The availability of these germplasm resources has enabled breeders to develop waxy corn varieties that cater to specific market demands, such as those in the food industry where waxy corn is valued for its texture and cooking properties. The global distribution of these varieties underscores their growing importance and acceptance in various niche markets (Kurtz et al., 2016). 6.3 Successful breeding of stress-resistant varieties using local germplasm in Africa and Asia In Africa and Asia, significant progress has been made in developing stress-tolerant maize varieties using local germplasm. Institutions such as the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) have conducted intensive breeding efforts to produce elite tropical maize germplasm with resistance to key abiotic and biotic stresses (Prasanna et al., 2020; Prasanna et al., 2021). CIMMYT collaborates with National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) and the private sector to establish maize germplasm phenotyping and testing networks in sub-Saharan Africa (ESA), Latin America, and tropical Asia (Figure 3). By integrating international resources and technical support, they precisely select maize germplasm tailored to regional climate, soil, and biological stresses, ensuring that the developed varieties are well-suited to the specific conditions of these regions, thereby enhancing their stress tolerance and productivity (Setimela et al., 2018; Prasanna et al., 2020; Prasanna et al.,
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