Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 239-246 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 239 Research Insight Open Access Advances in Molecular Breeding Techniques for Pitaya (Hylocereus) Dandan Huang, Zhen Li Hainan Institute of Biotechnology, Haikou, 570206, Hainan, China Corresponding email: zhen.li@hibio.org Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.5 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0023 Received: 29 Aug., 2024 Accepted: 30 Sep., 2024 Published: 08 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Huang and Li, 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: Huang D.D., and Li Z., 2024, Advances in molecular breeding techniques for pitaya (Hylocereus), Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(5): 239-246 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0023) Abstract Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) has attracted much attention due to its nutritional value and economic benefits. The advancement of molecular breeding technology has promoted the genetic improvement of dragon fruit. This study reviews the applications of chromosome level genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and functional genomics in revealing the evolutionary history and key metabolic pathways of dragon fruit, such as beetroot biosynthesis. Marker assisted selection (MAS) and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping have been used to identify genes related to fruit quality, stress resistance, and yield, while gene editing techniques such as CRISPR Cas systems provide new possibilities for precision breeding. Meanwhile, epigenomic research has revealed the response mechanism of dragon fruit under abiotic stress, laying the foundation for cultivating varieties with stronger stress resistance. Case studies have shown that the combination of traditional breeding and molecular technology has improved the disease resistance, fruit quality, and breeding efficiency of dragon fruit. This study emphasizes that utilizing genetic diversity, expanding genomic resources, and applying modern biotechnology are of great significance for improving the cultivation level of dragon fruit, responding to environmental changes, and meeting market demand. Through sustainable breeding strategies, the global competitiveness and environmental adaptability of dragon fruit cultivation can be further improved. Keywords Pitaya; Molecular breeding; Genomics; Gene editing; QTL mapping 1 Introduction Pitaya, commonly known as dragon fruit, belongs to the Hylocereus genus and is a member of the cactus family. It is native to Central and South America but has gained global popularity due to its nutritional, ornamental, and economic value (Shah et al., 2023). The fruit is particularly valued for its betalain-rich content, which contributes to its vibrant color and potential health benefits (Chen et al., 2021). Major producers of pitaya include countries like Colombia and Mexico, where the fruit is cultivated on diverse soil types, including gravel and rocky terrains, due to its rusticity (Junqueira et al., 2010). The increasing demand for pitaya, driven by its high consumption and industrial applications, underscores the need for advanced breeding techniques to enhance its genetic potential and adaptability (Shah et al., 2023). Despite its growing popularity, pitaya breeding faces several challenges. One significant issue is the lack of a comprehensive reference genome, which hampers genetic improvement efforts (Chen et al., 2021). Additionally, there is a need for varieties that meet specific climatic and consumer demands, particularly in regions like Brazil, where no suitable varieties have been released yet (Junqueira et al., 2010). The genetic variability within pitaya species, as revealed by molecular markers, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for breeding programs (Junqueira et al., 2010; Nashima et al., 2021). Furthermore, technical challenges such as DNA isolation, chromosome doubling, and embryo rescue require sophisticated protocols to overcome (Tel-Zur, 2022). This study focuses on the cutting-edge progress of molecular breeding technology for dragon fruit, with a particular emphasis on the innovation and application of genomic tools and biotechnology methods. It attempts to clarify the focus and development path of future exploration, and also evaluates the role of molecular markers, genetic mapping, and genome sequencing technologies in enhancing the genetic diversity of dragon fruit and optimizing the breeding process. The aim is to provide profound insights and assist researchers and breeding experts in promoting the sustainable development and variety improvement of dragon fruit cultivation.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzMg==