Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 95-105 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 95 Review and Progress Open Access The Genetic Basis of Aesthetic and Adaptive Traits in Garden Trees Revealed by GWAS ChuchuLiu1 , RuoDu2 1 Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, China 2 Modern Agricultural Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, China Corresponding author email: natashaccliu2023@gmail.com Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0010 Received: 17 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 22 Apr., 2024 Published: 30 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Liu and Du, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Liu C.C., and Du R., 2024, The genetic basis of aesthetic and adaptive traits in garden trees revealed by GWAS, Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(2): 95-105 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0010) Abstract Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), as a powerful genetic tool, can reveal the correlation between genotype and phenotype and have been widely applied in the field of plant genetics, especially in the trait studies of crops and trees. To explore the application of GWAS in the genetic basis research of aesthetic and adaptive traits of ornamental trees, this study comprehensively analyzed the aesthetic traits (such as tree shape, flower color, leaf type, etc.) and adaptive traits (such as drought tolerance, cold resistance, and disease and pest resistance). It was found that GWAS helps identify key genetic factors controlling these traits, providing valuable genetic information to facilitate the improvement and breeding of ornamental tree varieties. However, challenges such as limited sample size, environmental interaction effects, and the genetic control of complex traits remain in practical applications. This study underscores the importance of understanding the genetic diversity and mechanisms of ornamental trees, which is crucial for their sustainable management and utilization, enhancing the aesthetic and practical value of urban greening, and promoting eco-friendly urban development. With continuous progress in genetic research and biotechnology, GWAS is expected to offer more scientific and systematic guidance for the selection, improvement, and conservation of ornamental trees. Keywords Genome-wide association studies (GWAS); Ornamental trees; Aesthetic traits; Adaptive traits; Genetic basis research 1 Introduction Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) is a method used to identify associations between genetic variants and specific traits or diseases. It compares genome sequence differences across individuals with the aim of finding genetic variations associated with particular phenotypes or diseases (Uffelmann et al., 2021). The importance of GWAS lies in its ability to provide an efficient way to unravel the genetic mechanisms underlying complex traits, which is critical for understanding biodiversity, disease susceptibility, and adaptive traits. In the field of plant science, GWAS has become a major tool for dissecting plant genetics and phenotypic diversity, particularly in studying the genetic basis of crops and ornamental trees. Ornamental trees play multiple roles in urban environments, providing shade, improving air quality, enhancing urban landscapes, and promoting the psychological and social well-being of residents. The aesthetic traits of ornamental trees, such as tree form, leaf color, and flowering time, directly influence urban design and the quality of life for residents (Lüttge and Buckeridge, 2020). Meanwhile, adaptive traits, such as tolerance to environmental stresses (including pests, drought, and pollution), are crucial for tree growth, survival, and the sustainable maintenance of urban greening (Callow et al., 2018). Therefore, understanding and improving these traits can help select and breed ornamental tree species suitable for urban environments, achieving optimal ecological and aesthetic benefits. The application of GWAS in ornamental tree research can reveal the complex genetic basis underlying aesthetic and adaptive traits. By analyzing the associations between genetic variations and specific traits, GWAS helps identify key genes or gene regions responsible for these traits (Chen et al., 2021). This information not only enhances our understanding of the genetic diversity of ornamental trees but also provides scientific guidance for breeding and genetic improvement, enabling targeted improvement of tree aesthetic features and environmental adaptability.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzMg==