Johns Hopkins scientists have identified genes controlling fruit size in tomatoes and eggplants, potentially revolutionizing agriculture. The research, published in *Nature*, details the discovery of genes that determine the number of seed cavities (locules). Using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing, researchers can manipulate these genes to grow larger fruits. Michael Schatz, a geneticist at Johns Hopkins, suggests that engineered seeds could be sent to regions like Africa to establish new agricultural markets. The research involved mapping the genomes of 22 crops in the nightshade genus, revealing widespread gene duplication. Editing the *SaetSCPL25-like* gene in African eggplants, for example, increased locule count and fruit size in tomatoes. This "pan-genetics" approach, leveraging tomato genetics to advance African eggplants and vice versa, could introduce new produce varieties globally. The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute.
Gene Editing Advances Tomato and Eggplant Size, Yielding Potential Agricultural Revolution
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