马铃薯和番茄竟然是近亲

Core Insights - The origin of the potato is complex, resulting from a hybridization event between an ancient ancestor of tomatoes and a potato-like plant, leading to the creation of a new species and the development of tubers [1][2] Group 1: Genetic Findings - The potato genome is a "mixed miracle," with approximately 40% of its genes derived from the tomato ancestor and 60% from the potato-like plant [1] - Key genes controlling tuber formation, such as the "master switch" gene SP6A from the tomato and the IT1 gene regulating stolon growth from the potato-like plant, were identified [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 "Excellent Potato Project," aiming to shift from asexual reproduction relying on tubers to sexual reproduction using seeds, which could reduce planting costs and disease risks [3] - A new breeding pathway is proposed, utilizing tomatoes as a genetic platform to introduce key tuber-forming genes, potentially leading to crops that produce both potatoes underground and tomatoes above ground [3]