Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 185-193 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 191 (Song et al., 2016). Furthermore, international collaborations can leverage diverse genetic resources, such as those found in wild loquat populations, to enhance the genetic base of cultivated varieties (Wu et al., 2014). By fostering a collaborative environment, researchers can accelerate the development of improved loquat cultivars. 8.3 Vision for sustainable loquat breeding The vision for sustainable loquat breeding involves integrating genetic insights with ecological and economic considerations. The identification of key genes involved in fruit development, such as those in the MADS-box gene family, can inform breeding strategies aimed at improving fruit quality and yield (Li et al., 2023). Additionally, understanding the genetic basis of traits like sugar transport and hormone signaling can lead to the development of loquat varieties that are more resilient to environmental stresses (Li et al., 2022). Sustainable breeding practices will also benefit from the exploitation of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) to enhance complex traits, ensuring that new cultivars meet the demands of both producers and consumers (Kumar et al., 2017). By aligning genetic improvement with sustainability goals, the loquat industry can achieve long-term success and resilience. 9 Concluding Remarks Recent advancements in loquat genetic improvement have been significant, particularly with the development of genomic resources and the identification of key genes involved in fruit development and quality. The high-quality genome assembly of wild loquat has provided insights into the genomic evolution and domestication processes, revealing key differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and metabolites involved in fruit quality traits such as carbohydrate metabolism and hormone signaling. Additionally, the identification of genic SNP markers has enhanced our understanding of genetic diversity and cultivar identification, which are crucial for molecular breeding. The characterization of the SWEET gene family and MADS-box genes has further elucidated their roles in sugar transport and flower and fruit development, respectively, offering new targets for genetic improvement. Case studies have highlighted the importance of genetic diversity and the potential of wild loquat as a genetic resource for breeding. The genetic diversity analysis of loquat in Guizhou Province demonstrated the presence of distinct gene pools, emphasizing the value of wild relatives in breeding programs. The successful application of quantitative PCR for genotyping polyploid loquats has shown the feasibility of using advanced molecular techniques for breeding purposes, particularly in manipulating traits like flesh color. Moreover, the study of triploid loquats has revealed the potential of heterosis in improving growth vigor and disease resistance, linked to altered circadian rhythms. To further advance loquat genetic improvement, there is a need for continued exploration and utilization of genomic resources. Researchers should focus on integrating genomic data with traditional breeding methods to enhance the efficiency of selecting desirable traits. The development of more comprehensive genomic tools and databases will facilitate the identification of additional key genes and pathways involved in loquat fruit development and quality. Collaborative efforts between researchers, breeders, and industry stakeholders are essential to translate these genetic insights into practical applications, ultimately leading to the development of superior loquat cultivars with improved fruit quality and resilience. Acknowledgments Thank you to the project team for the careful guidance and strong support. Your professional insights and valuable suggestions have played a crucial role in the smooth progress of this research. 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.
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