Scientists have discovered how tomatoes have evolved from wild species

• The tomato originated as a result of hybridization with wild tomatoes 9 million years ago.
• Researchers identified key genes that are responsible for the production of fruit.
• Understanding the evolution of tomatoes helps in the development of new stable varieties.

Research conducted by a group of scientists revealed that tomatoes have evolved from ancestral wild tomatoes, with which they transformed into a new variety approximately 9 million years ago. This information was published in the journal Cell.

According to the research, wild tomatoes from the Andes were crossed with a species known as Etuberosum, resulting in the emergence of a new variety capable of producing fruits that are characteristic of modern tomatoes. Tomatoes, along with Etuberosum, belong to the same genus Solanum, but only tomatoes have the ability to produce fruits that give them advantages in conditions of severe climate.

The scientists analyzed 450 genes to determine which genes from each plant contributed to fruit production. It was found that two genes, SP6A from tomato and IT1 from Etuberosum, were critically important for this process. When these genes are combined, they activate mechanisms that allow tomatoes to produce fruits.

The modern tomato, which has been cultivated for nearly 10,000 years, has become an important agricultural product, currently ranking as the third most significant crop in the world. Understanding its evolution can help scientists develop more stable tomato varieties, especially in changing climate conditions.

Researchers are also exploring the potential of transferring genes essential for fruit production back into wild tomatoes to create new varieties capable of producing more abundant yields.

Tags: Research