Plant Gene and Traits 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 195-206 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 203 blight and Fusarium wilt (Jha et al., 2020; Jha et al., 2022). Moreover, the integration of genomics-assisted breeding with traditional breeding methods has led to the development of climate-resilient legume varieties with improved yield and stress tolerance (Thudi et al., 2020; Roy et al., 2023). These advancements ensure the sustainability of legume production in the face of changing environmental conditions. 10.3 Policy recommendations to support molecular breeding initiatives To support molecular breeding initiatives, several policy recommendations can be made. Governments and funding agencies should allocate more resources to research in molecular breeding and genomics to accelerate the development of resistant legume varieties (Shunmugam et al., 2018). Encourage collaboration between public and private sectors, and promote data sharing among researchers to enhance the efficiency of breeding programs (Duc et al., 2015). Develop clear and supportive regulatory frameworks for the use of genome editing technologies in crop improvement to facilitate the adoption of these technologies (Bisht et al., 2019). Invest in training programs to build the capacity of researchers and breeders in advanced molecular breeding techniques (Varshney et al., 2013). Increase public awareness about the benefits of molecular breeding and genome editing to gain public support and acceptance (Jha et al., 2023). 10.4 Future research priorities to enhance pest and disease resistance in legumes Future research priorities to enhance pest and disease resistance in legumes should focus on the following areas. Conduct comprehensive functional genomics studies to identify and characterize genes involved in pest and disease resistance (Jha et al., 2020; Jha et al., 2023). Develop and refine genome editing techniques to create precise modifications in resistance genes and pathways (Bisht et al., 2019). Implement high-throughput phenotyping platforms to accurately assess resistance traits and accelerate the breeding process (Jha et al., 2022). Utilize integrated OMICs approaches to understand the complex interactions between legumes and pathogens, and identify novel resistance mechanisms (Ali et al., 2022; Jha et al., 2022). Create multi-parent advanced generation intercross (MAGIC) populations to increase genetic diversity and identify new resistance alleles (Varshney et al., 2013). Focus on breeding strategies that combine resistance to pests and diseases with climate resilience to ensure sustainable legume production (Thudi et al., 2020; Roy et al., 2023). Explore synthetic biology approaches, such as synthetic promoters and transcription factors, to enhance resistance traits in legumes (Jha et al., 2023). Foster collaborative research efforts between breeders, geneticists, and pathologists to address the multifaceted challenges of pest and disease resistance (Shunmugam et al., 2018). By prioritizing these research areas, the scientific community can develop robust legume varieties that are well-equipped to withstand the challenges posed by pests, diseases, and climate change. Acknowledgments We appreciate the feedback from two anonymous peer reviewers on the manuscript 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. References Ahmad S., Wei X., Sheng Z., Hu P., and Tang S., 2020, CRISPR/Cas9 for development of disease resistance in plants: recent progress, limitations and future prospects, Briefings in Functional Genomics, 19(1): 26-39. https://doi.org/10.1093/bfgp/elz041 PMid:31915817 Ali A., Altaf M., Nadeem M., Karaköy T., Shah A., Azeem H., Baloch F., Baran N., Hussain T., Duangpan S., Aasim M., Boo K., Abdelsalam N., Hasan M., and Chung Y., 2022, Recent advancement in OMICS approaches to enhance abiotic stress tolerance in legumes, Frontiers in Plant Science, 13: 952759. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2022.952759 PMid:36247536 PMCid:PMC9554552
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