Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 286-294 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 286 Review and Progress Open Access Current Status and Advances in Loquat Genomics: From Genome Mapping to Molecular Breeding Jianquan Li Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory of Crop Molecular Breeding, Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: jianquan.li@hitar.org Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.6 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0028 Received: 20 Oct., 2024 Accepted: 22 Nov., 2024 Published: 30 Nov., 2024 Copyright © 2024 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: Li J.Q., 2024, Current status and advances in loquat genomics: from genome mapping to molecular breeding, Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(6): 286-294 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0028) Abstract This study provides an overview of the current status and advances in loquat genomics, with a focus on genome mapping, molecular breeding technologies, and the genetic mechanisms underlying key traits. As an important economic crop, loquat faces challenges such as environmental stresses, diseases, and breeding difficulties. In recent years, through high-quality genome assembly and the integration of multi-omics technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics), scientists have identified multiple key genes and QTL loci associated with fruit quality, stress resistance, and flowering and fruiting time. The article also discusses the role of marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genome editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 in improving breeding efficiency. Furthermore, research indicates that the domestication process of loquat exhibits a two-stage pattern, with genetic diversity concentrated in wild varieties. Looking forward, the application of multi-omics technologies and artificial intelligence is expected to enable more efficient and precise loquat breeding to address challenges posed by climate change and market demands. Keywords Loquat genomics; molecular breeding; High-quality genome assembly; Marker-assisted selection (MAS); Multi-Omics integration 1 Introduction Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is a significant fruit crop within the Rosaceae family, valued for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. It holds a prominent place in horticulture and global markets, particularly in Asia and Europe, where it is cultivated extensively (Wang et al., 2021; Jing et al., 2022). The fruit's economic importance is underscored by its role in local economies and its potential for export, contributing to the agricultural diversity and food security in these regions (Wang et al., 2017; Zhang etal., 2022). Despite its economic significance, loquat breeding and production face several challenges. One major issue is the plant's susceptibility to environmental stresses, such as cold temperatures, which can severely impact yield and fruit quality. Additionally, loquat exhibits gametophytic self-incompatibility, complicating breeding efforts and necessitating careful selection of compatible cultivars for effective pollination. The presence of diseases, such as leaf spot caused by Alternaria species, further complicates cultivation and requires ongoing management strategies. The study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current status and advances in loquat genomics, focusing on genome mapping and molecular breeding. By exploring recent genomic studies, such as the identification of key genes involved in fruit size and development, and the characterization of self-incompatibility mechanisms, the paper seeks to highlight the progress made in understanding loquat's genetic makeup. The scope of this study includes the application of genomic insights to improve breeding strategies, enhance stress resistance, and ultimately increase the productivity and quality of loquat crops. 2 Loquat Genomics: An Overview 2.1 Evolutionary history and genetic diversity Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is a subtropical fruit tree that has undergone significant evolutionary changes. It shares a common ancestor with other members of the Rosaceae family, such as apple and pear, and has experienced a whole-genome duplication event prior to its divergence from these relatives (Jiang et al., 2020; Jing
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