Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 43-56 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 43 Review Article Open Access Decoding Tree Genomes: From Genome Structure to Functional Gene Evolution and Application Wenzhong Huang, Zhongmei Hong CRO Service Station, Sanya Tihitar SciTech Breeding Service Inc., Sanya, 572025, Hainan, China Corresponding email: zhongmei.hong@hitar.org Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.2 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0006 Received: 13 Jan., 2024 Accepted: 15 Feb., 2024 Published: 02 Mar., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Huang and Hong, 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 W.Z., and Hong Z.M., 2024, Decoding tree genomes: from genome structure to functional gene evolution and application, Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(2): 43-56 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0006) Abstract This study primarily explores the importance of tree genomes in botanical and forestry research. Tree genomes reveal the genetic basis of key traits such as growth, disease resistance, and environmental adaptation, which is crucial for developing more resilient and productive tree species. This knowledge supports sustainable forestry practices and biodiversity conservation. The study emphasizes the transformative role of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies in rapidly and cost-effectively sequencing large and complex tree genomes. This has advanced the assembly of high-quality reference genomes, the discovery of new genes and regulatory elements, and the identification of genetic variations associated with important phenotypic traits. It elucidates the intricate relationships between genome structure, gene function, and their practical applications in botany and forestry. The aim is to understand how genomic variations influence gene function and contribute to phenotypic diversity in trees. This knowledge is essential for developing genetic markers for trait selection, enhancing tree breeding programs, and improving forest management practices. Ultimately, the goal is to leverage genomic information to address challenges such as climate change, disease outbreaks, and sustainable timber production. Keywords Tree genomes; Genome structure; Functional gene evolution; Sustainable forestry 1 Introduction Understanding tree genomes is crucial for advancing our knowledge in botany and forestry. Tree genomes provide insights into the genetic basis of important traits such as growth rate, disease resistance, and environmental adaptation. These insights can guide breeding programs to develop more resilient and productive tree species, essential for sustainable forestry practices and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, understanding the genetic diversity within tree species can help in managing and conserving forest ecosystems, ensuring their health and sustainability. Recent advances in tree genome sequencing have been transformative, driven by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. These technologies have made it feasible to sequence large and complex tree genomes rapidly and cost-effectively. Key developments include the assembly of high-quality reference genomes for major tree species, the discovery of novel genes and regulatory elements, and the identification of genetic variations associated with important phenotypic traits. Computational tools and methods for genome annotation and analysis have also advanced, enabling more accurate and comprehensive interpretations of tree genomic data (Ejigu and Jung, 2020). The primary objective of this review is to explore the intricate relationships between genome structure, gene function, and their practical applications in botany and forestry. By decoding tree genomes, we aim to understand how genomic variations influence gene function and contribute to the phenotypic diversity observed in trees. This knowledge is pivotal for developing genetic markers for trait selection, enhancing tree breeding programs, and improving forest management practices. Ultimately, the goal is to leverage genomic information to address challenges such as climate change, disease outbreaks, and the need for sustainable timber production.
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