08 January 2024 | Oluwaseyi Shorinola, Rose Marks, Peter Emmrich, Chris Jones, Damaris Odeny & Mark A. Chapman
The article "Integrative and Inclusive Genomics to Promote the Use of Underutilized Crops" by Oluwaseyi Shorinola, Rose Marks, Peter Emmrich, Chris Jones, Damaris Odieny, and Mark A. Chapman emphasizes the importance of underutilized crops in diversifying food systems and enhancing nutritional and ecological resilience. The authors argue that the genomics of these crops should not be conducted in isolation but should align with breeding strategies and community needs. They highlight the need for integrating genomic resources with seed systems, capacity building, and the use of advanced technologies such as gene editing and speed breeding. The article also stresses the importance of representing and building capacity in regions where underutilized crops are prevalent, promoting inclusivity and diversity in research. Additionally, it advocates for the integration of genomics with physiology and biochemistry to unlock the resilience and nutraceutical potential of these crops. The authors conclude that translating genomic advances into practical applications requires a cohesive approach involving various systems, participants, tools, and disciplines, and they emphasize the need for sharing germplasm and digital sequence information to support research in underutilized crops.The article "Integrative and Inclusive Genomics to Promote the Use of Underutilized Crops" by Oluwaseyi Shorinola, Rose Marks, Peter Emmrich, Chris Jones, Damaris Odieny, and Mark A. Chapman emphasizes the importance of underutilized crops in diversifying food systems and enhancing nutritional and ecological resilience. The authors argue that the genomics of these crops should not be conducted in isolation but should align with breeding strategies and community needs. They highlight the need for integrating genomic resources with seed systems, capacity building, and the use of advanced technologies such as gene editing and speed breeding. The article also stresses the importance of representing and building capacity in regions where underutilized crops are prevalent, promoting inclusivity and diversity in research. Additionally, it advocates for the integration of genomics with physiology and biochemistry to unlock the resilience and nutraceutical potential of these crops. The authors conclude that translating genomic advances into practical applications requires a cohesive approach involving various systems, participants, tools, and disciplines, and they emphasize the need for sharing germplasm and digital sequence information to support research in underutilized crops.