Exploring the Role of Advanced Genomics in Melon Breeding: A Review

• Published in: Plant molecular biology reporter Vol. 43; no. 3; pp. 978 - 1005
• Main Authors: Sharma, Nity, Deol, Jaideep Kaur, Kaur, Gurleen, Kaur, Agampreet, Sharma, Sat Pal, Sarao, Navraj Kaur
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York Springer US 01.09.2025; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Bioinformatics; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Cultivars; Disease resistance; Environmental stress; Food quality; Fruits; Genetic diversity; Genetic linkage; Genetic modification; Genetics; Genome editing; Genomes; Genomics; Germplasm; Horticulture; Life Sciences; Market value; Melons; Metabolomics; Morphology; Nutritive value; Plant breeding; Plant Breeding/Biotechnology; Plant Sciences; Proteomics; Review; United States > US; Association studies; Functional genomics and transcriptomics; Genomic sequencing and mapping; Marker assisted breeding; Melon; Pan-genomics and melon breeding programs
• ISSN: 0735-9640; 1572-9818
• DOI: 10.1007/s11105-025-01552-y

Background Advanced genomics’ role in melon breeding is a quickly developing field that uses modern molecular methods to enhance melon ( Cucumis melo ) production. A significant commodity in agriculture, melons have a high market value and are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, colours and flavours. However, issues with disease resistance, yield stability, quality features and environmental adaptation have always presented difficulties for melon breeding. Powerful tools are provided by advanced genetics to handle these issues more accurately and efficiently. Open Question “How can advanced genomics tools accelerate the development of improved melon varieties with enhanced yield, disease resistance and nutritional quality?” Considering resource-constrained environments and consumer preferences, this subject stimulates a discussion on both the opportunities and challenges in applying genomics technologies in melon breeding. Aim The overarching aim of exploring the role of advanced genomics in melon breeding is to revolutionize melon production, making it more efficient, sustainable and aligned with the evolving needs of producers, consumers and the environment. Conclusion The integration of advanced genomics into melon breeding has the potential to revolutionize the industry by creating improved cultivars that are higher yielding, more resilient to environmental stressors and of superior quality. The combination of genomic selection, marker-assisted breeding, gene editing and other cutting-edge technologies paves the way for more sustainable, efficient and precise breeding efforts that will help meet the growing global demand for melons.