Unlocking the Genetic Secrets of Fruit Firmness: How a Single Mutation Doubled Strawberry Firmness
Tuesday, July 1, 2025 - 17:08
in Biology & Nature
Strawberries are notoriously soft and highly perishable, posing challenges to global production. Recent research has identified a genetic breakthrough that could help cultivate firmer strawberries with enhanced shelf-life. The study focuses on a specific gene, POLYGALACTURONASE1 (FaPG1), which influences fruit firmness by regulating cell wall degradation. Loss-of-function mutations in this gene double fruit firmness, making strawberries more resilient to damage during storage and transportation. This discovery could have major implications for breeding strategies aimed at improving fruit quality and longevity.