Optimal Designs for Genomic Selection in Hybrid Crops.

Improved capacity of genomics and biotechnology has greatly enhanced genetic studies in different areas. Genomic selection exploits the genotype-to-phenotype relationship at the whole-genome level and is being implemented in many crops. Here we show that design-thinking and data-mining techniques can be leveraged to optimize genomic prediction of hybrid performance.

Genetic and physiological analysis of iron biofortification in maize kernels.

Background: Maize is a major cereal crop widely consumed in developing countries, which have a high prevalence of iron (Fe) deficiency anemia. The major cause of Fe deficiency in these countries is inadequate intake of bioavailable Fe, where poverty is a major factor. Therefore, biofortification of maize by increasing Fe concentration and or bioavailability has great potential to alleviate this deficiency.