Genetic manipulation of phytochromes in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.): a novel approach to crop improvement.

摘要

Fruits from two different PHY mutants of tomato and a line over-expressing a PHYA transgene were evaluated. A MoneyMaker line containing a PHYB1 mutation had increased yield (total kg) when grown in the greenhouse (74%) and the field (39%). PHYB1 mutations did not affect fresh fruit weight (FW), dry weight/fresh weight (DW/FW), total soluble solids (SS), paste viscosity, seeds/fruit, nor fruit color. A MoneyMaker line containing a PHYA mutation produced fruit with qualities important to the paste industry. Compared to wild-type (WT) fruit, PHYA mutant fruit have increased DW/FW, more SS, increased paste viscosity, and fewer seeds/fruit. A transgenic UC-82B line over-expressing PHYA also produces fruits with altered qualities. Compared to WT fruit,this PHYA over-expressor produces fruits that yield less viscous paste and have more seeds. Collectively, these results indicate significant potential for improving tomato crops via the genetic manipulation of phytochrome loci.