Genoplasmics: Advancing Plant Germplasm Research through Genomics

Plant genetic resources (PGR) are crucial for crop improvement programs. The National Genebank (NGB) at ICAR-NBPGR is responsible for collecting, conserving, and facilitating the utilization of genetic diversity in crop plants. Plant germplasm forms the foundation for plant genetic improvement. Extensive germplasm collections have been amassed and stored, presenting the challenge of effectively harnessing and exploiting this valuable resource. Genomics-based plant germplasm research (GPGR), or genoplasmics, is an emerging interdisciplinary field that applies genomic principles and methods to germplasm study. This article outlines the concept, strategy, and approach of GPGR, highlighting recent advancements in core collection creation, germplasm enhancement through core collections, and gene discovery from core collections. GPGR represents a significant milestone in germplasm research, ushering in a new scientific investigation and innovation era.