Maize Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 34-44 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/mgg 41 observed in seed longevity among different accessions (Guzzon et al., 2021). Therefore, it is crucial to integrate genomic selection and emerging technologies to accelerate the development of climate-resilient cultivars (He and Li, 2020). 8 Future Directions 8.1 Enhancing germplasm diversity through international collaboration and conservation programs International collaboration and conservation programs are pivotal in enhancing germplasm diversity. The Germplasm Enhancement of Maize (GEM) project exemplifies a successful public-private partnership aimed at increasing the genetic diversity of U.S. maize by incorporating exotic germplasm. Similarly, the Latin American Maize Project (LAMP) has demonstrated the benefits of coordinated national and international efforts in evaluating and utilizing diverse maize accessions. These initiatives underscore the importance of sustained, collaborative efforts in germplasm conservation and enhancement, which can be further bolstered by global partnerships and resource sharing. 8.2 Integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning for germplasm evaluation and selection The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in germplasm evaluation and selection holds significant promise. Genomic prediction models, as utilized in the GEM project, have shown substantial improvements in prediction accuracy for traits such as grain yield and moisture. These models can accelerate the breeding process by identifying promising genetic combinations more efficiently than traditional methods. Collaborative diversity panels and genomic predictions have also been effective in identifying genetic resources for enriching elite germplasm, highlighting the potential of AI and ML in optimizing breeding strategies. 8.3 Developing climate-resilient, stress-tolerant fresh corn varieties Developing climate-resilient and stress-tolerant maize varieties is crucial in the face of changing environmental conditions. The adaptation of tropical maize germplasm to temperate environments has been a focus of breeding programs, resulting in the successful integration of unique alleles that enhance stress tolerance and agronomic performance. The use of stratified mass selection and other advanced breeding techniques has facilitated the development of maize varieties that can thrive in diverse climatic conditions, ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability. 8.4 Strengthening partnerships among research institutions, governments, and commercial breeders Strengthening partnerships among research institutions, governments, and commercial breeders is essential for the successful development and dissemination of improved maize varieties. The GEM project serves as a model for such collaborations, involving USDA-ARS, public and private research scientists, and commercial breeders to enhance maize germplasm diversity. These partnerships enable the pooling of resources, expertise, and data, thereby accelerating the breeding process and ensuring that new varieties meet the needs of producers and consumers alike. Acknowledgments We sincerely thank the anonymous peer reviewers for their valuable comments and detailed suggestions. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Abbas H., Williams W., Windham G., Pringle H., Xie W., and Shier W., 2002, Aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination of commercial corn (Zea mays) hybrids in Mississippi, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(18): 5246-5254. https://doi.org/10.1021/JF020266K Allier A., Teyssedre S., Lehermeier C., Charcosset A., and Moreau L., 2019, Genomic prediction with a maize collaborative panel: identification of genetic resources to enrich elite breeding programs, Theoretical and Applied Genetics, 133: 201-215. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00122-019-03451-9
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