Scientists Decode Olive Tree Genome

A team of researchers from Spain's Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), the Real Jardin Botánico (CSIC-RJB), and the Centro Nacional de Análisis Genómico (CNAG-CRG), has sequenced the complete genome of the olive tree. The variety sequenced is from the Farga variety, one of the most widespread in eastern Spain, and over 1,300 years old.

The sequencing project has brought new insight to the genetic puzzle of the olive tree. "Without a doubt, it is an emblematic tree, and it is very difficult to improve plant breeding, as you have to wait at least 12 years to see what morphological characteristics it will have, and whether it is advisable to cross-breed," says principal author of this paper Toni Gabaldón, ICREA research professor and head of the comparative genomics laboratory at the CRG. "Knowing the genetic information of the olive tree will let us contribute to the improvement of oil and olive production," he adds.

In addition to the complete sequencing of the olive genome, the researchers also compared the DNA with other varieties such as the wild olive. They have also found the transcriptome, the genes expressed to determine what differences exist on the genetic expression level in leaves, roots, and fruits at different stages of ripening. The next step, researchers say, will be to decode the evolutionary history of this tree.

For more information, read the news release at the CRG website.