Integrating nucleic acid research and computational strategies for advancing plant food security

Abstract

The evolution of plant breeding, from traditional techniques to cutting-edge omics-driven approaches (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), has revolutionized crop yield enhancement since the mid-twentieth century. Today, genomics empowers breeders with powerful tools to directly associate genetic variation with phenotypes, accelerating the development of desirable traits. Building on this foundation, nucleic acid-based diagnostic techniques (PCR and LAMP) and gene-editing platforms (ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas), along with RNAi enable precise detection and manipulation of plant gene expression. This review focuses on various genome editing and diagnostic strategies for plant protection that aim to improve stress resilience, productivity, and nutritional value. Additionally, we highlight the latest computational strategies and methodologies that support the precise and rational design of such interventions with robust tools for targeted crop improvement. Looking ahead, these breakthroughs are poised to drive innovation across agriculture, biotechnology, and nucleic acid testing, opening new frontiers in sustainable food production and precision breeding.