Plant Gene and Trait 2024, Vol.15, No.6, 295-304 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/pgt 300 6 Innovative Use of Sorghum germplasm Resources 6.1 New applications of germplasm resources in genetic engineering and molecular breeding The utilization of sorghum germplasm resources in genetic engineering and molecular breeding has opened new avenues for crop improvement. For instance, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been instrumental in identifying genetic signals associated with key traits such as plant architecture and bioenergy traits. These studies have revealed significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to traits like plant height, tiller number, and reducing sugar content, which are crucial for enhancing sorghum's utility in food, feed, and biofuel production (Luo et al., 2020). Additionally, the development of a mini core collection of sorghum germplasm has facilitated the identification of accessions with desirable characteristics, thereby streamlining the breeding process (Upadhyaya et al., 2009). The integration of these genetic resources into breeding programs has the potential to significantly enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of sorghum. 6.2 Rapid improvement of specific traits through gene editing technology Gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, have revolutionized the rapid improvement of specific traits in sorghum. These technologies allow for precise modifications at the genetic level, enabling the enhancement of traits such as grain yield, nutritional content, and stress resistance. For example, the assessment of grain protein in tropical sorghum accessions has identified high-protein germplasm that can be targeted for gene editing to develop nutritionally superior varieties (Luo et al., 2020). Furthermore, the genomic characterization of Ethiopian sorghum germplasm has revealed a wealth of genetic diversity and rare alleles that can be harnessed through gene editing to improve traits like abiotic stress tolerance and agronomic performance (Cuevas et al., 2016; Girma et al., 2020). These advancements underscore the potential of gene editing to accelerate the breeding of sorghum varieties with enhanced traits. 6.3 Functional gene mining and application based on germplasm resources Functional gene mining from sorghum germplasm resources has led to the discovery of genes associated with important agronomic traits. For instance, a comprehensive phenotypic and genomic characterization of Ethiopian sorghum germplasm has identified candidate genes linked to adaptation to different environments, which are crucial for breeding programs aimed at improving stress tolerance (Girma et al., 2020). Additionally, GWAS has been used to identify loci associated with traits such as plant height, panicle compactness, and smut resistance, providing valuable markers for molecular breeding (Girma et al., 2019). The identification of yield-related genes controlling multiple traits further exemplifies the potential of functional gene mining to enhance sorghum breeding efforts (Zhang et al., 2023). These discoveries highlight the importance of leveraging germplasm resources for the identification and application of functional genes in crop improvement. 7 Germplasm Resource Protection and Future Prospects 7.1 Impact of global climate change on the collection and utilization of sorghum germplasm resources Global climate change poses significant challenges to the collection and utilization of sorghum germplasm resources. sorghum, known for its resilience to harsh conditions, is increasingly seen as a critical crop for food security in the face of climate change. However, the changing climate could push the growing conditions beyond the tolerance limits of even this resilient crop, jeopardizing food security for millions (Chadalavada et al., 2021; Khalifa and Eltahir, 2023). The development of new sorghum varieties that can withstand the new range of biotic and abiotic stresses caused by climate change is essential. This requires access to novel genetic variants, often found in crop wild relatives, which are difficult to work with and require substantial investment in pre-breeding (Mace et al., 2020). Therefore, the impact of climate change necessitates a more robust approach to the collection, evaluation, and utilization of sorghum germplasm to ensure the sustainability of this vital crop. 7.2 Establish a global collaboration mechanism to strengthen the sharing and protection of germplasm resources To effectively address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the sustainable use of sorghum germplasm resources, establishing a global collaboration mechanism is crucial. Such a mechanism would facilitate the sharing and protection of germplasm resources across different regions and institutions. The
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