Genomics of genus Rosa: Advances, challenges, and perspectives

The genus Rosa holds significant economic value, widely utilized in ornamental horticulture, perfumery, and phytomedicine. Roses exert profound cultural influence, symbolizing universal themes of love, elegance, and passion across diverse societies and historical contexts. This review highlights the progress in genome sequencing and assembly of crucial Rosa species. Key findings elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying ornamental traits such as continuous flowering, flower color, scent biosynthesis, and floral longevity. The integration of genomic databases and advanced bioinformatics tools has facilitated deeper insights into gene function and regulation, driving innovative approaches in breeding strategies. Despite these advances, challenges remain in addressing the complexity of polyploid genomes and applying this research to develop practical breeding strategies. Emerging technologies, such as machine learning and gene editing by enabling precise modifications to specific genes, are poised to overcome these hurdles, enabling the development of high-quality, disease-resistant Rosa cultivars tailored to evolving market demands. This review highlights the transformative potential of genomics in advancing the scientific and commercial prospects of Rosa species.