Plant Gene and Trait 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 85-96 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 93 2022). These advancements not only help in increasing the yield but also in enhancing the nutritional quality of rice, which is essential for addressing malnutrition and hidden hunger (Raza et al., 2019). The integration of high-resolution QTL mapping and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has further facilitated the identification of key genetic regions and candidate genes responsible for desirable traits, thereby expediting the breeding of high-quality rice varieties (Qin et al., 2015; Jin et al., 2023). 7.2 Impact on farmer livelihoods and agricultural practices The development of rice varieties with improved grain quality has a profound impact on farmer livelihoods and agricultural practices. High-quality rice varieties command better market prices, thereby increasing the income of farmers. For example, the identification of QTLs associated with grain quality traits such as kernel elongation and nutritional content in Basmati rice can lead to the development of superior varieties that meet market demands (Sharma et al., 2021). Additionally, the introduction of rare alleles, such as the GS2 allele, which enhances grain size and yield, can significantly boost rice production and farmer profitability (Hu et al., 2015). Improved grain quality also encourages the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, as farmers are more likely to invest in better crop management techniques to maximize the benefits of high-quality rice varieties. The use of molecular markers and marker-assisted selection in breeding programs ensures the development of rice varieties that are not only high-yielding but also resilient to environmental stresses, further stabilizing farmer incomes and food supply (Solis et al., 2018). 7.3 The role of genetic research in sustainable agriculture Genetic research plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture by enabling the development of rice varieties that are high-yielding, nutritionally superior, and resilient to environmental stresses. The dissection of genetic and molecular bases of yield and quality traits through QTL mapping and GWAS has provided valuable insights into the complex mechanisms regulating these traits (Xing et al., 2010; Qin et al., 2015). For instance, the identification of QTLs for drought tolerance and grain yield under controlled conditions has highlighted the role of specific genes and transcription factors in osmotic regulation and stress response, which are crucial for developing drought-resistant rice varieties (Solis et al., 2018). Moreover, the integration of comparative genomics and meta-QTL analysis has facilitated the identification of orthologous QTLs across different cereal crops, thereby broadening the scope of genetic improvement in rice and other staple crops (Shariatipour et al., 2021). These advancements in genetic research not only contribute to the development of high-quality rice varieties but also support the broader goals of sustainable agriculture by ensuring food security, enhancing farmer livelihoods, and promoting environmentally friendly farming practices. In conclusion, the global impact of improved rice grain quality is multifaceted, encompassing enhanced food security, better farmer livelihoods, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. The continuous efforts in genetic research and breeding programs are essential for realizing these benefits and ensuring a stable and nutritious food supply for the growing global population. 8 Concluding Remarks Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) mapping has significantly advanced our understanding of the genetic determinants of rice grain quality. The application of high-resolution QTL mapping techniques, such as QTL-seq and genotyping-by-sequencing, has enabled the rapid identification of QTLs associated with important agronomic traits, including grain quality, disease resistance, and yield. For instance, QTL-seq has been successfully used to identify QTLs for partial resistance to rice blast disease and seedling vigor in rice. Similarly, high-resolution mapping has identified QTLs for various grain quality traits, such as transparency, chalkiness, and head rice percentage, which are crucial for rice quality improvement. Meta-analyses have further refined our understanding by consolidating QTLs across different studies, leading to the identification of meta-QTLs (MQTLs) that are more stable and reliable for breeding programs. For example, a meta-analysis identified 48 MQTLs associated with grain iron and zinc concentrations, which are essential for biofortification efforts. Another study identified 70 MQTLs related to drought tolerance, highlighting the importance of stable QTLs in diverse genetic backgrounds and environments.
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