State Key Laboratory of Animal Biodiversity Conservation and Integrated Pest Management, Institute of Zoology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (Chongqing) Science City, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
The rapid development of functional genomics, high-throughput sequencing technologies, and advanced breeding methodologies has significantly transformed modern crop improvement. Integrating genomic information with precision breeding strategies provides unprecedented opportunities to understand the genetic basis of important agronomic traits and accelerate the development of high-yielding, resilient, and sustainable crop varieties. This Special Issue, “Advances in Functional Genomics and Precision Breeding for Crop Improvement,” aims to bring together the latest research advances in functional genomics, genome-wide analyses, molecular breeding, and innovative biotechnological approaches that contribute to crop genetic improvement. We welcome original research articles and reviews addressing recent discoveries in gene function characterization, genomic resource development, and the application of precision breeding technologies.
Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
Functional genomics and gene discovery underlying important agronomic traits;
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, and genetic diversity analysis;
Multi-omics approaches, including transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and epigenomics for crop improvement;
Marker-assisted selection (MAS), genomic selection (GS), and predictive breeding strategies;
CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing and other emerging breeding technologies;
Molecular mechanisms regulating yield, quality, stress tolerance, and disease resistance;
Development and utilization of crop germplasm resources;
Precision breeding strategies for climate-resilient and sustainable agriculture.
By highlighting recent innovations and interdisciplinary approaches, this Special Issue seeks to provide new insights into the genetic improvement of crops and promote the application of functional genomics and precision breeding technologies toward global food security and sustainable agricultural development.
