Rice Genomics and Genetics 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 190-202 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/rgg 201 wild relatives and landraces, to broaden the genetic base and enhance the potential for heterosis. Establishing well-defined heterotic groups and optimizing parental selection are crucial steps in developing superior hybrids. The integration of modern genomic tools and biotechnological approaches can significantly enhance the efficiency and precision of hybrid breeding. Marker-assisted selection and genomic selection should be widely adopted to accelerate the breeding process and improve the accuracy of selecting high-performing hybrids. CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies offer powerful tools for introducing desirable traits and creating novel genetic variations that enhance hybrid vigor. The comprehensive use of multi-omics approaches can provide deeper insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying heterosis. By integrating data from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and phenomics, breeders can identify key drivers of hybrid performance and develop targeted strategies for improving hybrid traits. This holistic approach can also facilitate the identification of biomarkers for stress tolerance, yield, and quality traits, enabling more precise selection and breeding. Socio-economic and environmental considerations are also critical for the successful adoption of hybrid rice varieties. The cost of hybrid seeds and the availability of reliable seed supply systems can influence the adoption rates among farmers, particularly smallholders with limited resources. Policies that promote the accessibility and affordability of hybrid seeds, coupled with extension services and training programs, can enhance the adoption and successful cultivation of hybrid rice. Environmental sustainability should be a key focus in hybrid rice breeding programs. While hybrid rice has the potential to increase yields and reduce the need for chemical inputs, intensive management practices can pose environmental challenges. Sustainable management practices, such as integrated pest management, precision agriculture, and the use of organic fertilizers, should be promoted to mitigate the environmental impact of hybrid rice cultivation. Maximizing rice yields through heterosis represents a promising strategy for addressing the global challenges of food security and agricultural sustainability. The success of hybrid rice breeding programs hinges on a comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying heterosis, the adoption of modern genomic and biotechnological tools, and the consideration of socio-economic and environmental factors. To advance hybrid rice breeding, several recommendations can be made based on the findings of this study. First, breeding programs should prioritize the maintenance and expansion of genetic diversity by incorporating diverse germplasm sources and establishing robust heterotic groups. Second, the integration of advanced genomic tools and biotechnological approaches, such as CRISPR and synthetic biology, should be accelerated to enhance breeding efficiency and precision. Acknowledgments The authors extend sincere thanks to two anonymous peer reviewers for their feedback on the manuscript of this study, whose evaluations and suggestions have contributed to the improvement of the manuscript. 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 Bernardo R., 2014, Genomewide selection when major genes are known, Crop Science, 54(1): 68-75. https://doi.org/10.2135/cropsci2013.05.0315 Cheng S.H., Zhuang J.Y., Fan Y.Y., Du J.H., and Cao L.Y., 2007, Progress in research and development on hybrid rice: a super-domesticate in China, Annals of Botany, 100(5): 959-966. https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcm207 Ermakova M., Danila F.R., Furbank R.T., and von Caemmerer S., 2019, On the road to C4 rice: advances and perspectives, The Plant Journal, 101(4): 940-950. https://doi.org/10.1111/tpj.14505 Fiehn O., 2002, Metabolomics-the link between genotypes and phenotypes, Plant Molecular Biology, 48(1-2): 155-171. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1013713905833
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