Harnessing genomic and molecular biology resources for genetic improvement of lotus: current achievements and future directions

Abstract

Lotus, an economically significant aquatic crop within the genus Nelumbo (family Nelumbonaceae), includes the two extant species Nelumbo nucifera and Nelumbo lutea. Renowned for its ornamental, culinary, and medicinal value, lotus has seen notable advancements in genomics and molecular biology, particularly in reference genome sequencing and assembly, bioactive compound biosynthetic pathways, and molecular mechanisms underlying key traits. Critical genes linked to horticultural characteristics, edible quality, medicinal properties, and stress resilience have been identified and functionally validated. This review presents a thorough overview of recent molecular developments in lotus research, emphasizing genome sequencing and functional gene analysis. Additionally, it addresses prevailing challenges and future directions, providing valuable insights for foundational research and genetic enhancement of lotus.

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Funding

Biological Resources Programme, Chinese Academy of Sciences(KFJ-BRP-007-009); Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(JCZRJQ202400159)