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Research progress of omics technologies in forage breeding
Yiwei Bai1, Yunwei Zhang1, Tianzuo Wang2,3
1College of Grassland Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China.
Fundamental Research
|June 11, 2026
Summary
Omics technologies revolutionize forage breeding by accelerating the development of high-yield, high-quality varieties. This review highlights advancements in genomics and other omics fields for key forage species.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Plant Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Forages are crucial for global agriculture and ecosystems.
- Traditional breeding methods are slow and inefficient for modern demands.
- Advancements in omics technologies offer new solutions for forage improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the applications and recent advances of omics technologies in forage research.
- To explore how omics can improve forage yield, nutritional quality, and adaptability.
- To establish a theoretical foundation for genetic improvement and molecular breeding of forages.
Main Methods:
- Review of omics technologies (genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics).
- Analysis of applications in major forage species: alfalfa, ryegrass, red clover, white clover, and oat.
- Examination of omics advancements in major crops for potential application in forages.
Main Results:
- Omics technologies have significantly deepened understanding of forage biology.
- These tools aid in identifying key genes and metabolic pathways for trait improvement.
- Progress has been made in accelerating the development of improved forage varieties.
Conclusions:
- Omics approaches are transforming forage research and breeding.
- Learning from major crop omics applications can enhance forage development.
- This review provides a foundation for future genetic improvement and molecular breeding of forages.
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