In a cool twist to the story of our favorite starchy snack, scientists from the Agricultural Genomics Institute in Shenzhen (the Chinese mainland), the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and Lanzhou University, along with experts from Canada and the U.K., have revealed that the tomato is the unexpected mother of the potato. 🍅 meets 🥔 indeed!
This groundbreaking study, published in the latest issue of Cell, shows that around 9 million years ago an ancient hybridization event between a tomato plant and a potato-like species called Etuberosum led to the birth of the modern potato. The tomato served as the maternal parent while Etuberosum contributed genetically from the paternal side, sparking the formation of a novel organ – the tuber.
Using a comprehensive DNA paternity test of 101 genomes and hundreds of re-sequenced samples from cultivated potatoes and their wild relatives, researchers found that every potato carries a balanced mix of genes from both parents. Key genes like SP6A, which acts as a master switch for tuber formation from the tomato, and IT1, which promotes the growth of underground stems from Etuberosum, were critical in this evolutionary leap.
The creation of tubers gave potatoes a survival advantage by storing water and starch, making them resilient in harsh environments. This unexpected genetic mixture not only explains the unique traits of the potato but also promises to guide new strategies in plant breeding and agricultural innovation.
From ancient plant liaisons to modern-day agricultural breakthroughs, nature continues to surprise us with its creativity!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
