From the genome to super-pangenome: a new paradigm for accelerated crop improvement

npj Science of Plants 2026 Open access

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Authors: Ali Raza, Yiran Li, Farkhandah Jan, Cassandria Geraldine Tay Fernandez, Reyazul Rouf Mir, Zhangli Hu, Rajeev K. Varshney
DOI: 10.1038/s44383-025-00019-z
Cited by: 15
References: 67

Abstract

Super-pangenomes expand species-level pan-genomes to genus-wide frameworks, which integrate cultivated and wild genomes to capture hidden diversity. Super-pangenomes reduce reference bias, discover structural variations, rare alleles, and regulatory elements which drive stress adaptation and trait evolution. By leveraging QTL/GWAS and panomics, super-pangenomes fast-track breeding of stress-smart and high-yielding crops. This review highlights advances, challenges, and prospects, which position super-pangenomes as a “surprise package” for sustainable, food-secure agriculture.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Genetic Mapping and Diversity in Plants and Animals Plant Molecular Biology Research Chromosomal and Genetic Variations

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Science of Plants
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
2
Issue
1
Publication date
2 February 2026
Language
EN