Improving nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is essential for sustainable wheat production, given the global demand for high-yielding and environmentally resilient crop varieties. NUE is a complex trait governed by multiple genetic, physiological, and environmental factors. This review synthesizes recent advances in the genetic dissection of NUE in wheat, focusing on quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and transcriptome analyses. Furthermore, novel approaches such as protein turnover quantification, epigenetic regulation, NIR-based quality prediction, and genomic selection optimization are discussed as emerging strategies to enhance NUE. Key genes identified include nitrate transporters (NRT1, NRT2), nitrogen assimilation enzymes (GS, GOGAT), transcription factors (NLPs, WRKYs, NACs), and signal transduction components (SnRK, CIPK). Integrative studies combining genomics, transcriptomics, and machine learning offer new insights into the dynamic regulation of NUE. This review highlights the importance of multi-layered breeding approaches and provides valuable genetic resources and methodological frameworks for future wheat NUE improvement programs.

Flooding stress causes a significant reduction in soybean yield. The development of flood-tolerant cultivars is an effective way to minimize yield loss due to flooding. Information on candidate genes for flooding tolerance is useful for developing tolerant lines. The
objective
of this study was to identify potential candidate genes for flooding tolerance in soybean by integrating the results of a quantitative trait locus analysis and RNA sequencing. A total of 19 genes showed good amplification in capillary electrophoresis and were further analyzed through a reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR); two of these genes showed differential expression among tolerant and susceptible lines. The expression of Glyma.12g030900 and Glyma.10g050300 in leaf and root tissues, respectively, was higher in several tolerant lines than in the susceptible lines under flooding stress. The chlorophyll index of the tolerant lines was also consistently higher than that of the susceptible lines over two years, supporting the qRT-PCR results. This study provides useful information on flooding tolerance in soybeans.