Genetic Analysis of Cauliflower Showcases its History

Researchers from Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences and partners conducted a genetic analysis of cauliflower to analyze its evolutionary history. Their study may help in cauliflower breeding programs to produce varieties with enhanced nutrition and reduced use of water or fertilizer.

Cauliflower is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is grown around the globe. This crop has hundreds of varieties, about 80 of which are in North America. However, there is limited research on the genomic bases of cauliflower's selective breeding.

Scientists from various institutions in China and Greece studied 971 cauliflower genomes and related plants to produce a high-quality genomic variation map for cauliflower. Their findings showed that cauliflower had a stepwise progression from broccoli. The team found three genes responsible for its transition and nine genes that were related to other crop traits. The researchers also identified a zinc protein that regulates the growth of the plant's stem.

For more information, read the article on Nature Genetics.