Gene Discovery Unlocks Potential for Bigger Tomatoes and Eggplants

Researchers identify key genes in nightshade crops, enabling precise genome edits to enhance fruit size and agricultural viability.

Scientists at Johns Hopkins University and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have mapped the pan-genome of 22 nightshade crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants.
The study identified gene duplications, known as paralogs, that play a critical role in traits like fruit size and flowering time.
Editing a specific gene in African eggplants resulted in larger fruits, and the same gene was found to influence size in tomatoes when modified.
The research highlights the potential of 'pan-genetics'—studying multiple species together—to improve crop diversity, resilience, and yields worldwide.
Findings could lead to new crop varieties that support food security in regions with limited agricultural resources, pending regulatory approvals.