Exploring Genetic and Molecular Pathways in Plant Reproduction for Enhanced Crop Traits

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About this Research Topic

Submission deadlines

  1. Manuscript Submission Deadline 18 February 2025

  2. This Research Topic is still accepting articles.

Background

Plant reproduction forms the foundation for ecological balance and agricultural productivity. This vital process encompasses both sexual and asexual methods, contributing to the propagation and genetic diversity of plant species. Asexual reproduction involves various strategies and results in new plants identical to the parent, such as apomixis, ensuring rapid and stable population growth. In contrast, sexual reproduction relies on complex cellular events, including the interactions of chromosomes and genes within specialized reproductive structures, to create genetically diverse offspring. Despite significant advancements in understanding these processes, gaps remain in our knowledge of the genetic and molecular mechanisms driving plant reproduction. Recent studies have highlighted the roles of key genes and regulatory pathways, yet the full spectrum of their functions and interactions is not completely understood. Addressing these gaps is crucial for both fundamental science and practical applications in agriculture, where improved crop traits and yields are continually sought.

This research topic aims to explore the latest breakthroughs and discoveries in the field of plant reproduction, covering both sexual and asexual mechanisms. It seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the processes, structures, and strategies involved, highlighting their significance for ecological balance and agricultural productivity. The research will focus on identifying the functions of key genes and regulatory pathways responsible for plant reproduction by investigating the phenotypic changes and molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying these processes. Additionally, the goal is to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical applications in agriculture, aiming to develop crops with improved traits, increased yield, and sustainability.

To gather further insights into the multifaceted world of plant reproduction, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Functional genomics for studying and manipulating plant reproduction using genome editing and gene expression profiling.
- Applying genomic and bioinformatic tools to decipher the complex genetic networks involved in plant reproduction.
- Unraveling genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying reproduction, including the role of key genes and regulatory pathways.
- Harnessing the potential of plant reproduction for crop improvement applications.
- Identifying key challenges in plant reproduction research and proposing potential avenues for further investigation.

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Keywords: plant reproduction, plant genetics, Crop improvement, asexual reproduction

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