Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 286-294 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 292 Despite these advancements, several knowledge gaps remain. There is a need for more comprehensive studies on the genetic diversity and domestication processes of loquats, as current research has primarily focused on cultivated varieties. Furthermore, the integration of advanced genomic tools such as optical mapping and next-generation sequencing could enhance our understanding of loquat genetics and facilitate the identification of key quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Prioritizing research on these fronts will be essential for addressing the challenges in loquat breeding and improving fruit quality and yield. Looking forward, the next decade of loquat genomics is poised to leverage cutting-edge technologies to accelerate breeding programs and enhance genetic research. The integration of genomics-assisted breeding techniques, such as marker-assisted selection and genomic selection, will likely become more prevalent, enabling the development of superior loquat cultivars with desirable traits. Additionally, advancements in sequencing technologies and bioinformatics will facilitate more detailed genetic analyses, leading to a deeper understanding of loquat biology and the potential for innovative breeding strategies. This vision underscores the importance of continued investment in genomic research and the adoption of new technologies to drive progress in loquat breeding and cultivation. Acknowledgments The author sincerely thanks Dr. Huang's research group for carefully reviewing the initial draft of the manuscript and providing detailed revision suggestions. The author also extends deep gratitude to the two anonymous peer reviewers for their valuable comments and suggestions on the manuscript of this study. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The author affirms that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. Reference Arora L., and Narula A., 2017, Gene editing and crop improvement using CRISPR-Cas9 system, Frontiers in Plant Science, 8: 1932. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2017.01932 PMid:29167680 PMCid:PMC5682324 Blasco M., Naval M., Zuriaga E., and Badenes M., 2014, Genetic variation and diversity among loquat accessions, Tree Genetics & Genomes, 10: 1387-1398. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11295-014-0768-3 Bortesi L., and Fischer R., 2015, The CRISPR/Cas9 system for plant genome editing and beyond, Biotechnology Advances, 33(1): 41-52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biotechadv.2014.12.006 PMid:25536441 Carrera L., Sanzol J., Herrero M., and Hormaza J., 2009, Genomic characterization of self-incompatibility ribonucleases (S-RNases) in loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) (Rosaceae, Pyrinae), Molecular Breeding, 23: 539-551. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11032-008-9254-7 Chen K., Wang Y., Zhang R., Zhang H., and Gao C., 2019, CRISPR/Cas genome editing and precision plant breeding in agriculture, Annual Review of Plant Biology, 70: 667-697. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-arplant-050718-100049 PMid:30835493 Gisbert A., Martinez-Calvo J., Llacer G., Badenes M., and Romero C., 2009, Development of two loquat [Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.] linkage maps based on AFLPs and SSR markers from different Rosaceae species, Molecular Breeding, 23: 523-538. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11032-008-9253-8 Halladakeri P., Gudi S., Akhtar S., Singh G., Saini D., Hilli H., Sakure A., Macwana S., and Mir R., 2023, Meta-analysis of the quantitative trait loci associated with agronomic traits, fertility restoration, disease resistance, and seed quality traits in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.), The Plant Genome, 16(3): e20342. https://doi.org/10.1002/tpg2.20342 PMid:37328945 Hasan N., Choudhary S., Naaz N., Sharma N., and Laskar R., 2021, Recent advancements in molecular marker-assisted selection and applications in plant breeding programmes, Journal of Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, 19(1): 128. https://doi.org/10.1186/s43141-021-00231-1 PMid:34448979 PMCid:PMC8397809
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