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The potential of wheat spatial omics
Journal article   Peer reviewed

The potential of wheat spatial omics

Xiao-Yuan Tao, Cong Tan, Yifan Liu, Yuanyuan Wang, Ali Raza, Jing He, Lulu Wang, Keke Xia, Yan Yan, Sha Liao, …
Nature genetics
2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41588-026-02542-w
PMID: 41922865

Abstract

Functional genomics Genomics Plant genetics
Wheat is a major staple crop for over one-third of the world's population, crucial for global food security, economic stability and cultural traditions. Recently, single-cell and spatial omics approaches have transformed biological discovery, primarily in medical and animal sciences, and they are now beginning to be applied in plant research. Here we summarize the technical innovations and feasibility of spatial omics applications in wheat research, particularly for understanding developmental and environmental responses, thereby potentially enhancing wheat breeding. We highlight how these tools can reveal spatial and temporal patterns in gene expression, cellular heterogeneity and tissue organization in wheat. Furthermore, we propose developing a spatially resolved single-cell atlas of wheat across its life cycle to facilitate breakthroughs in basic research and potential applications in breeding. To achieve these goals, we advocate for a Wheat Spatial Omics Consortium to foster worldwide collaboration for overcoming barriers and developing sustainable and climate-resilient wheat.

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UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:

#2 Zero Hunger

Source: SDGs in the Output

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