Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 206-220 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 216 8.3 Economic and regulatory considerations Economic and regulatory considerations also play a crucial role in the adoption and implementation of synthetic-derived wheat improvement strategies. The development and deployment of SHWs and other genetically diverse lines require substantial financial investment in research, breeding, and field trials. This can be a significant barrier, especially for resource-limited breeding programs and institutions (Ogbonnaya et al., 2013). Furthermore, the commercialization of new wheat varieties derived from synthetic sources may face regulatory hurdles, particularly concerning biosafety and environmental impact assessments (Li et al., 2021). Regulatory frameworks governing the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and advanced breeding techniques vary widely across different regions, potentially limiting the global adoption of these technologies. For instance, genome editing and other molecular breeding strategies, while promising, are subject to stringent regulatory scrutiny, which can delay the release of new varieties and increase the cost of compliance (Li et al., 2021). Additionally, public perception and acceptance of genetically modified crops can influence market dynamics and the economic viability of synthetic-derived wheat varieties. In conclusion, while leveraging genetic diversity from synthetics offers significant potential for wheat improvement, it is accompanied by a range of challenges and limitations. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort involving advanced technical methodologies, robust breeding strategies, and supportive economic and regulatory frameworks to ensure the successful integration of synthetic-derived genetic diversity into wheat breeding programs. 9 Future Directions and Opportunities 9.1 Potential for new synthetic wheat lines The development of new synthetic wheat lines holds significant promise for the future of wheat improvement. Synthetic wheat lines, created by crossing durum wheat with various Aegilops species, have already demonstrated their potential to introduce valuable genetic diversity into bread wheat. For instance, synthetic hexaploid wheats (SHWs) derived from crosses between durum wheat and Aegilops tauschii have been shown to enhance traits such as disease resistance, yield stability, and industrial quality (Zaïma et al, 2017; Mirzaghaderi et al., 2020; Aberkane et al., 2020). The production of synthetic wheat lines has also been successful in generating stable amphiploids with diverse genetic backgrounds, which are valuable resources for breeding programs (Mirzaghaderi et al., 2020). Furthermore, synthetic wheat lines have been utilized to transfer desirable traits from wild relatives to modern wheat varieties, resulting in improved resistance to pests and pathogens, high yield potential, and good quality attributes (Aberkane et al., 2020). The continued exploration and development of new synthetic wheat lines, including those involving less-investigated species like Aegilops umbellulata, will be crucial for broadening the genetic base of wheat and addressing future challenges in wheat production (Okada et al., 2020). 9.2 Innovations in breeding technologies The advent of advanced breeding technologies, such as CRISPR and other gene-editing tools, presents exciting opportunities for accelerating wheat improvement. CRISPR technology allows for precise and targeted modifications of the wheat genome, enabling the introduction of beneficial traits with greater efficiency and accuracy compared to traditional breeding methods. For example, CRISPR has been used to enhance disease resistance, improve grain quality, and increase yield potential in wheat (Ginkel et al., 2007). Additionally, the use of molecular markers, such as SSR markers, has facilitated the identification and selection of desirable alleles in synthetic wheat lines and their backcross-derived lines, further enhancing the efficiency of breeding programs (Zhang et al., 2004). The integration of these innovative technologies with traditional breeding approaches will enable the development of wheat varieties that are better adapted to changing environmental conditions and capable of meeting the growing global demand for food. 9.3 Strategic recommendations for future research and breeding programs To fully leverage the potential of synthetic wheat lines and advanced breeding technologies, several strategic recommendations can be made for future research and breeding programs. It is essential to continue the exploration and utilization of genetic diversity from wild relatives of wheat. This includes not only the
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