Unlocking the potential of sugarcane: Advances in genomic innovation, biorefinery technologies, and stress resilience, and circular bioeconomy

Sugarcane ( Saccharum spp.) is a globally vital crop that plays a central role in sugar production, bioenergy systems, and the emerging circular bioeconomy. While it holds considerable agricultural and industrial importance, its potential is constrained by genomic complexity, susceptibility to environmental stresses, and limitations in biomass conversion efficiency. This review synthesizes recent advances in sugarcane physiology, molecular breeding, biorefinery technology, and industrial applications aimed at overcoming these barriers. We examine the conservation status of wild Saccharum biodiversity—threatened by habitat fragmentation and climate change—and propose strategies such as CRISPR-based precision breeding and marker-assisted introgression for genetic resource preservation. The integration of agroecological innovations, including sensor-based cultivation and biophysical treatment methods, is discussed for enhancing yield and resource-use efficiency. Advances in polyploid genomics, epigenetic regulation, and omics-assisted variety development are detailed, alongside transgenic approaches (e.g., DREB for drought tolerance and CHITINASE for disease resistance) that improve stress resilience and productivity. Furthermore, we analyze biorefinery processes that leverage sugarcane biomass for the production of biofuels, bioplastics, nutraceuticals, and other value-added products, emphasizing its integrative role within circular bioeconomy frameworks. Nevertheless, critical knowledge gaps remain regarding multistress adaptive mechanisms, field performance of engineered genotypes, and scalable biorefinery implementation. Moving forward, the convergence of AI-driven breeding, synthetic biology, and circular economy principles offers a pathway to transform sugarcane into a multipurpose crop. Future research should prioritize the development of polyploid-specific genomic tools, AI-driven phenotyping platforms, and policy frameworks that support carbon-neutral biorefining. It is also essential to establish international collaborative initiatives, such as an International Research Initiative on Genomics-guided Sugarcane Breeding(Zhang et al., 2025 f). Such mechanisms will be instrumental in unlocking the full potential of the sugarcane industry to advance sustainable agriculture and strengthen bioeconomic resilience. • CRISPR rescue of wild germplasm. Safeguarding endangered Saccharum biodiversity against habitat fragmentation. • AI-omics breeding for climate resilience. Epigenetic/transgenic tools (e.g., DREB/CHITINASE) enhancing stress tolerance. • Zero-waste biorefinery integration. Converting biomass to biofuels/bioplastics/nutraceuticals via circular systems.