马铃薯和番茄竟然是近亲（唠“科”）

Core Insights - The origin of the potato is complex, resulting from a hybridization event between an ancient ancestor of the tomato and a potato-like plant, leading to the creation of a new species with tubers [1][2] Group 1: Genetic Findings - The potato genome consists of approximately 40% genes from the tomato ancestor and 60% from the potato-like plant, indicating a significant genetic contribution from both parent species [1] - Key genes controlling tuber formation, such as the SP6A gene from the tomato and the IT1 gene from the potato-like plant, were identified, forming a new regulatory network that enabled the development of tubers [2] Group 2: Evolutionary Implications - The potato's emergence supports the "punctuated equilibrium" theory of evolution, which suggests that evolution occurs in long periods of stability interrupted by short, rapid changes [2] - The initial potatoes, equipped with tubers, thrived during a period of environmental upheaval in the Andes, allowing them to adapt and occupy various ecological niches [2] Group 3: Future Applications - The research is being translated into breeding practices through the "优薯计划," aiming to shift from asexual reproduction relying on tubers to sexual reproduction using seeds, which could lower planting costs and disease risks [3] - A new breeding pathway is proposed, utilizing tomatoes as a genetic platform to introduce tuber-forming genes, potentially leading to crops that produce both potatoes underground and tomatoes above ground [3] - The complexity of tuber formation requires further exploration of regulatory factors to achieve precise potato breeding designs [3]