Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 185-193 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 185 Research Insight Open Access Frontiers in Loquat Genetic Improvement: Identification and Application of KeyGenes Xuming Lv, Yeping Han Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang Colloge of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: yeping.han@jicat.org Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol.14, No.4 doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0018 Received: 27 Jun., 2024 Accepted: 30 Jul., 2024 Published: 07 Aug., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Lv and Han, 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: Lv X.M., and Han Y.P., 2024, Frontiers in loquat genetic improvement: identification and application of key genes, Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding, 14(4): 185-193 (doi: 10.5376/tgmb.2024.14.0018) Abstract This study reviews the latest progress in genetic improvement of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), with a focus on analyzing key genomics and molecular breeding strategies. Research has pointed out that the limited genetic diversity, self incompatibility, and susceptibility to diseases of loquat severely restrict breeding work. With the rapid development of genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and proteomics, key genes affecting loquat fruit quality, stress resistance, and agricultural traits have gradually been revealed, such as differentially expressed genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and hormone signaling pathways, as well as SWEET and MADS box gene families. Functional genomics methods and gene editing technologies such as CRISPR Cas have shown great potential in precision breeding, but currently still face challenges such as low transformation efficiency. Meanwhile, the application of molecular markers such as SNPs and SSRs has significantly accelerated the breeding of high-quality varieties. Case studies have shown that wild loquat germplasm resources have important value in improving disease resistance and growth vitality, especially the hybrid vigor exhibited by triploid loquat. Future research should focus on the application of emerging genomic tools, global collaboration, and sustainable breeding strategies to develop high-quality and stress resistant loquat varieties that meet market demand. This article emphasizes the necessity of integrating traditional breeding and molecular breeding methods, providing scientific basis and practical suggestions for loquat breeding. Keywords Loquat genetic improvement; Key genes identification; Molecular breeding; Functional genomics; CRISPR-Cas technology 1 Introduction Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a significant fruit crop within the Rosaceae family, valued for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. It is cultivated extensively in subtropical regions, contributing to both local economies and global horticultural diversity (Jing et al., 2022; Yan et al., 2024). The fruit's appeal lies in its rich phenolic content and antioxidant properties, which have been shown to vary significantly among different cultivars (Ferreres et al., 2009). This diversity not only enhances its market value but also offers potential health benefits, making loquat an important crop in horticulture (Zhang et al., 2023). Despite its importance, loquat breeding faces several challenges. One major issue is the limited genetic diversity within cultivated varieties, which can hinder the development of new cultivars with improved traits (Soriano et al., 2005). Additionally, loquat exhibits gametophytic self-incompatibility, complicating breeding efforts and necessitating careful selection of compatible pollen donors (Wang et al., 2017). Furthermore, diseases such as leaf spot caused by Alternaria species pose significant threats to loquat cultivation, impacting yield and fruit quality (Yan et al., 2024). These challenges underscore the need for advanced breeding techniques and genetic studies to enhance loquat production and resilience (Gisbert et al., 2009b). This study focuses on the latest progress in genetic improvement of loquat, particularly by identifying and utilizing genes that play a key role in loquat development and domestication. It explores recent achievements in genome research, including the discovery of potential genes related to fruit size and growth, as well as the analysis of important gene families such as SAUR and MADS box to reveal the molecular mechanisms behind loquat characteristics. At the same time, we also focus on the genetic diversity of wild loquat germplasm resources, emphasizing their importance in strengthening breeding projects, committed to promoting loquat variety
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