Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 100-110 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 108 transfer beneficial alleles within related species offers great promise for achieving durable resistance to diseases such as rust, further contributing to sustainable agricultural practices (Mondal et al., 2016). 8.3 Strategies for overcoming current challenges Despite the potential benefits, several challenges need to be addressed to fully realize the advantages of wide hybridization in wheat genetic improvement. One of the primary challenges is the complexity and enormous size of the wheat genome, which has historically impeded progress in wheat genetics and functional genomics (Li et al., 2020). To overcome this, it is essential to adopt innovative breeding strategies and novel tools that can efficiently utilize genetic diversity for new genes and alleles (Mondal et al., 2016). Additionally, the development of a high-yielding heterotic pattern through a systematic three-step strategy can help in overcoming the stagnation in yield growths observed in selfing species like wheat (Zhao et al., 2015). Efforts should also be directed towards transforming and reorienting agricultural systems to integrate food security and climatic change concerns, thereby addressing both biotic and abiotic stress resistances/tolerances in crops (Ali et al., 2020). By focusing on these strategies, it is possible to bridge the yield gap between genetic resources and elite breeding pools, ultimately enhancing grain yield potential and ensuring sustainable wheat production (Longin and Reif, 2014). The future of wheat genetic improvement through wide hybridization is bright, with emerging technologies and innovations playing a crucial role. By harnessing genetic diversity and adopting innovative strategies, it is possible to overcome current challenges and promote sustainable agriculture, thereby ensuring food security for the growing global population. 9 Concluding Remarks Wide hybridization has emerged as a pivotal strategy for enhancing wheat genetic improvement. The integration of wild relatives and underutilized wheat varieties has significantly expanded the genetic variability available for wheat breeding, particularly in terms of grain quality, disease resistance, and yield stability. The use of advanced genomic tools, such as non-denaturing fluorescence in situ hybridization (ND-FISH), has facilitated the identification and utilization of genetic diversity within wheat germplasm. Moreover, the application of both conventional and modern breeding approaches has successfully introgressed desirable traits, including climate resilience and nutritional quality, into wheat varieties. Future research should focus on overcoming the barriers to wide hybridization, such as genetic incompatibility and sterility issues, to further enhance the efficiency of this breeding strategy. The integration of high-throughput phenotyping, genome sequencing, and genomic selection will be crucial in accelerating the genetic gains in wheat breeding programs. Additionally, exploring the potential of hybrid wheat breeding, which involves the development of lines with favorable male floral characteristics, could significantly boost grain yield and yield stability. There is also a need to reassess and redesign pre-breeding strategies to unlock the hidden genetic potential of wheat genetic resources stored in gene banks worldwide. Wide hybridization stands as a cornerstone for the future of wheat genetic improvement. By tapping into the vast genetic diversity of wild relatives and neglected wheat varieties, breeders can introduce novel traits that enhance grain quality, disease resistance, and yield stability. The continuous advancements in genomic technologies and breeding methodologies promise to overcome existing challenges and unlock new opportunities for wheat improvement. Ultimately, wide hybridization not only contributes to the sustainability and resilience of wheat production but also plays a critical role in ensuring global food security in the face of growing population demands and climate change. Acknowledgments We extend our sincere thanks to two anonymous peer reviewers for their invaluable feedback on the initial draft of this study. 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.
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