Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 185-193 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 190 degradation has provided insights into the genetic basis of fruit development and ripening (Song et al., 2016). Moreover, the genome-wide characterization of the SWEET gene family has highlighted their role in sugar transport and accumulation, which are critical for improving fruit sweetness and overall quality (Figure 2) (Li et al., 2022). The development of genotyping techniques, such as quantitative PCR, has also facilitated the selection of desirable traits like flesh color in polyploid loquats, further contributing to the enhancement of fruit quality (Wang et al., 2021). Figure 2 Phylogenetic relationship and conserved motif analysis of EjSWEETgenes (Adopted from Li et al., 2022) 7.3 Comprehensive multi-trait improvement Comprehensive multi-trait improvement in loquat involves the integration of various genetic resources and techniques to enhance multiple desirable traits simultaneously. The use of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers has enabled the evaluation of genetic diversity and the identification of key genetic markers for traits such as fruit size, color, and quality (Li et al., 2015). Additionally, the genome assembly and resequencing of wild loquat have provided valuable insights into the genomic evolution and domestication processes, which are essential for targeted breeding strategies (Jing et al., 2022). The identification of MADS-box genes associated with flower and fruit development further supports the potential for multi-trait improvement by targeting genes involved in both reproductive and vegetative growth (Li et al., 2023). 8 Future Directions 8.1 Emerging tools and technologies The future of loquat genetic improvement is poised to benefit significantly from emerging tools and technologies. The development of high-quality genome assemblies and resequencing efforts have already provided valuable insights into the genomic evolution and domestication of loquat, offering a foundation for future genetic studies (Jing et al., 2022). The use of next-generation sequencing technologies has facilitated the identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which are crucial for genetic diversity analyses and marker-assisted selection breeding (Li et al., 2015). Additionally, the application of quantitative PCR (qPCR) for genotyping polyploid plants, such as triploid loquats, represents a promising tool for breeding programs focused on specific traits like flesh color (Wang et al., 2021). The integration of these advanced genomic tools will enhance the precision and efficiency of loquat breeding efforts. 8.2 Collaboration and resource sharing Collaboration and resource sharing are essential for advancing loquat genetic improvement. The establishment of comprehensive genomic databases, such as those containing expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and full-length cDNA libraries, provides a rich resource for researchers worldwide. Sharing these resources can facilitate the identification of novel genes and the understanding of complex traits, such as fruit development and ripening
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