Genetic Mechanisms for Hybrid Breeding in Vegetable Crops

To address the complex challenges faced by our planet such as rapidly changing climate patterns, food and nutritional insecurities, and the escalating world population, the development of hybrid vegetable crops is imperative. Vegetable hybrids could effectively mitigate the above-mentioned fundamental challenges in numerous countries. Utilizing genetic mechanisms to create hybrids not only reduces costs but also holds significant practical implications, particularly in streamlining hybrid seed production. These mechanisms encompass self-incompatibility (SI), male sterility, and gynoecism. The present comprehensive review is primarily focused on the elucidation of fundamental processes associated with floral characteristics, the genetic regulation of floral traits, pollen biology, and development. Specific attention is given to the mechanisms for masculinizing and feminizing cucurbits to facilitate hybrid seed production as well as the hybridization approaches used in the biofortification of vegetable crops. Furthermore, this review provides valuable insights into recent biotechnological advancements and their future utilization for developing the genetic systems of major vegetable crops.

Automated summary

To address challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and population growth, the development of hybrid vegetable crops is crucial. Genetic mechanisms like self-incompatibility, male sterility, and gynoecism play a vital role in reducing costs and streamlining hybrid seed production. This review focuses on elucidating processes related to floral characteristics, genetic regulation, pollen biology, and development, with specific attention to masculine and feminine traits in cucurbits and hybridization approaches for biofortification. It also provides insights into biotechnological advancements and their future use in major vegetable crops' genetic systems.