PAID ACCESS | Published on : 15-Jun-2026 | Pages: 56-75 | Doi : 10.37446/edibook152024/56-75
Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) is the process of combining phenotypic and genetic data to improve the response to selection. The principle of MAS is that indirect selection for a trait can be performed by selecting for a DNA marker closely linked to the trait, rather than directly for the trait itself. A large variety of molecular markers is available presently, but the choice of suitable markers to attain objectives is necessary. Modern plant breeding predominantly applies MAS which consist consists of several approaches based on different objectives, such as MABC, MARS, GS, and Pyramiding of multiple genes. These approaches have been proven to be effective for improving yield, quality, and incorporating resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The potential of MAS has been enhanced by integration of genome editing approaches, such as Clustered Regularly Inter-Spaced Palindromic Repeat, which enhances the precision and efficiency of crop improvement. Further, the vast amounts of data generated by high-throughput genomic technologies require robust bioinformatics tools for effective analysis, storage, and interpretation. Thus, bioinformatics has become indispensable in modern plant breeding. In orphan crop species, the development of DNA markers has greatly advanced with the availability of genomic data. Hence, MAS has been now utilized to fully realize the potential of orphan crops. The integration of MAS with advanced breeding techniques offers a promising solution to existing challenges of crop improvement. However, despite its successes, MAS faces several challenges, including the need for high-density marker maps, the complexity of polygenic traits, and the cost of genotyping. The future of MAS lies in its ability to incorporate new technologies and machine learning, which have the potential to further enhance the precision and efficiency of plant breeding.
DNA markers, MAS, Plant Breeding, Crop Improvement, Underutilized crop
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