Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 277-285 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 281 5.2 Identification of resistance genes in a specific wild tea species Research has identified several genetic markers and genes associated with resistance to blister blight in tea plants. Notably, the transcription factor CsWRKY14 has been isolated from Camellia sinensis and shown to play a critical role in mediating resistance through the salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway (Liu et al., 2021). This gene is more highly expressed in resistant cultivars, suggesting its potential as a genetic resource for breeding programs. Additionally, a functional molecular marker, EST-SSR073, has been identified, which is associated with blister blight resistance, facilitating marker-assisted selection in breeding programs (Karunarathna et al., 2020). 5.3 Experimental breeding trials integrating resistance genes into cultivated tea Experimental breeding trials have focused on integrating these resistance genes into cultivated tea varieties. The use of marker-assisted selection (MAS) has been pivotal in these efforts, allowing for the precise incorporation of resistance traits into new cultivars. For instance, the EST-SSR073 marker has been used to track and select for resistance alleles in breeding populations, significantly expediting the breeding process (Karunarathna et al., 2020). These trials aim to produce cultivars that maintain high resistance levels while preserving desirable agronomic traits. 5.4 Analysis of outcomes and implications for future breeding The outcomes of these breeding trials have been promising, with new tea cultivars exhibiting enhanced resistance to blister blight. The integration of resistance genes like CsWRKY14 has not only improved disease resistance but also contributed to better stress tolerance overall (Zhang et al., 2015; Liu et al., 2021). These advancements underscore the potential of wild tea species as genetic resources for breeding programs. The success of these trials highlights the importance of continued exploration of wild tea genetic diversity to discover additional resistance genes, which could be crucial for developing resilient tea cultivars in the face of evolving pathogen threats. This approach not only ensures sustainable tea production but also reduces reliance on chemical fungicides, aligning with environmental conservation goals. 6 Challenges and Opportunities 6.1 Ethical and conservation concerns in using wild species The utilization of wild tea species as genetic resources for breeding programs presents significant ethical and conservation challenges. Wild tea species, such as Camellia taliensis, are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance in their native habitats (Zhang et al., 2015). The exploitation of these species for genetic improvement must be balanced with conservation efforts to prevent the depletion of natural populations. Ethical considerations also arise in the context of bioprospecting, where the genetic resources of wild species are used without adequate benefit-sharing with local communities or countries of origin (Mukhopadhyay et al., 2015). Ensuring that conservation strategies are in place and that ethical guidelines are followed is essential to sustainably harness the genetic potential of wild tea species. 6.2 Bridging the gap between research and practical applications There is a notable gap between the extensive research conducted on wild tea species and their practical application in breeding programs. While genomic and transcriptomic studies have identified valuable genetic traits in wild species, such as stress resistance and quality improvement (Zhang et al., 2015; Zhang et al., 2022), translating these findings into practical breeding strategies remains a challenge. The complexity of tea plant genomes and the long breeding cycles further complicate the integration of research into practice (Mukhopadhyay et al., 2015; Lubanga et al., 2020). Bridging this gap requires the development of efficient genomic selection strategies and the application of biotechnological tools to accelerate breeding processes and enhance the genetic gain in tea breeding programs (Lubanga et al., 2020). 6.3 Potential for global collaboration in wild tea resource utilization The global nature of tea cultivation and consumption presents a unique opportunity for international collaboration in the utilization of wild tea resources. Collaborative efforts can facilitate the sharing of genetic resources, research findings, and breeding technologies across countries, enhancing the genetic diversity and resilience of tea cultivars worldwide (Xia et al., 2020). Such collaborations can also promote the development of standardized
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