Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 196-205 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 202 6.2 Integrating new technologies 6.2.1 Advances in genomics and biotechnology Recent advances in genomics and biotechnology have revolutionized wheat breeding by providing tools for precise genetic analysis and manipulation. High-throughput sequencing technologies and the development of comprehensive wheat genome assemblies have facilitated the identification of genetic variations and the mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with important agronomic traits (Liu et al., 2020; Walkowiak et al., 2020). Techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA interference (RNAi) allow for targeted gene editing, enabling the modification of specific genes to improve traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and grain quality (Yang et al., 2022). 6.2.2 Future directions in wheat breeding The future of wheat breeding lies in the integration of traditional breeding methods with modern genomic and biotechnological approaches. The development of SHW and the use of diverse wild relatives will continue to play a crucial role in introducing new genetic variation into wheat breeding programs (Zhang et al., 2021; Wan et al., 2023). Additionally, the application of genomic selection, which uses genome-wide markers to predict the performance of breeding lines, can accelerate the breeding process and improve the efficiency of selecting superior genotypes (Walkowiak et al., 2020; Sansaloni et al., 2020). Collaborative efforts among global research institutions and the sharing of genetic resources and data will be essential to address the challenges posed by climate change and the growing demand for wheat production (Aberkane et al., 2020; Michikawa et al., 2020). 7 Concluding Remarks The research on hexaploid genetics has significantly advanced our understanding of wheat breeding strategies. Synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW) has emerged as a crucial genetic resource, enabling the transfer of favorable genes from tetraploid and diploid donors to common wheat, thereby enhancing yield and resistance to various stresses. The creation of SHW by crossing goat grass (Aegilops tauschii) with durum wheat has widened the genetic base for wheat breeding, leading to the development of high-yield, disease-resistant varieties. Studies have shown that SHW can tolerate aneuploidy, which is beneficial for maintaining genetic stability and diversity. The introduction of the U-genome fromAegilops umbellulata into synthetic hexaploids has resulted in significant phenotypic variations, which are valuable for breeding programs. Furthermore, SHW genotypes have demonstrated resilience under drought and heat stress conditions, making them suitable for breeding in challenging environments. Genomic studies have revealed extensive structural rearrangements and introgressions from wild relatives in hexaploid wheat, which contribute to its adaptability and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis has identified several QTLs associated with root traits under drought conditions, providing essential information for breeding drought-tolerant wheat varieties. Additionally, dynamic and reversible DNA methylation changes have been observed in polyploid wheat, which correlate with altered gene expression and transposable element activity, offering insights into polyploid genome evolution. The findings from these studies underscore the potential of synthetic hexaploid wheat in future wheat breeding strategies. The broad genetic base provided by SHW can be leveraged to develop new wheat varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance, and stress tolerance. The ability of SHW to tolerate aneuploidy and the phenotypic variations introduced by the U-genome highlight the importance of incorporating diverse genetic resources into breeding programs. Future breeding strategies should focus on utilizing the genetic diversity and recombination potential of SHW to address global food security challenges. The identification of QTLs associated with desirable traits under stress conditions provides a roadmap for developing resilient wheat varieties. Moreover, understanding the epigenetic changes in polyploid wheat can inform breeding practices aimed at optimizing gene expression and transposable element activity for improved crop performance.
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