Figure; Kenong Xu, associate professor of horticulture, measures a weeping apple branch in an orchard at Cornell AgriTech. (Photo from Cornell Chronicle)

Cornell University scientists identified a rare gene in apples that can improve orchard fruit production. Combined with gene editing tools, the MdLAYZY1A gene can potentially increase yield and reduce labor costs for apple growers.

MdLAYZY1A gene largely controls the “weeping” growth in apples, which means that the branches grow downwards. Downward branches are favored by apple farmers because it improves crop productivity by helping the trees allocate more carbon and other nutrients for reproductive growth rather than for vegetative growth. In most cases, the farmers tie down branches when they are young which entails additional labor costs. But those that exhibit the MdLAYZY1A gene, which occurs in less than 1% of trees, are extremely valued by farmers.

Now that the gene has been identified, scientists are exploring the option of utilizing it along with CRISPR-Cas9 technology application to develop apple cultivars with weeping-like growth. If successful, apple growers can be guaranteed with high fruit yields with low production costs thereby improving their income while providing quality fruits for consumers.

Learn more from Cornell Chronicle.

See https://www.isaaa.org/kc/cropbiotechupdate/ged/article/default.asp?ID=20329