The Role of Agrigenomics Industry in Modern Agriculture

Agrigenomics refers to the application of genomics tools and knowledge to improve crops and livestock. Since the completion of the human genome project, advanced molecular tools like next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics and molecular breeding have been extensively used in agriculture. These tools are leading to accelerated identification of genes and genetic variants related to important agricultural traits. Agrigenomics is playing a significant role in developing crops and livestock with desired traits like higher yields, better nutrition, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses.

Identification of Genes Controlling Important Traits

Advanced DNA sequencing technologies have enabled large-scale sequencing of plant and animal genomes. This has facilitated identification of genes controlling traits of importance for agriculture. For example, genes controlling yield, resistance to diseases, adaptation to climate change have been mapped in major crops through genome-wide association studies. In livestock, genes related to growth rate, feed efficiency, meat quality have been uncovered using genome sequencing. Identifying the right genes allows targeted selection and breeding of varieties with desired traits. This genomic-assisted breeding is more precise and efficient compared to conventional methods.

Assisted Breeding for Trait Development

Once the genes controlling important traits are identified, molecular markers closely linked to those genes are developed. These markers are then used in marker-assisted selection (MAS) for desired traits. Agrigenomics Industry  MAS allows early selection of offspring carrying the genes for the target traits even before the traits are visually expressed. This increases breeding efficiency and reduces the time taken for cultivar or variety development. Marker-assisted backcrossing is commonly employed to introgress genes into high yielding varieties from unadapted sources. MAS is being widely used to develop biotic and abiotic stress tolerant varieties in major crops worldwide.

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