Thornless, Disease-Resistant, Tastier Blackberries on the Way

Thornless, disease-resistant, and tastier blackberries could be on the horizon sooner than you think — thanks to a new genetic research study from the University of Florida.

Using a large collection of DNA sequences from an experimental blackberry ‘BL1’, the UF/IFAS-led research team computationally pieced them together, rebuilding the original sequence of the entire genome of this tetraploid blackberry.

“Overall, this study not only advances our understanding of blackberry genetics, but it sets the stage for significant improvements in blackberry breeding techniques,” says UF/IFAS researcher Zhanao Deng, who led the study, which was recently published in journal Horticulture Research.

According to Deng, it starts with understanding ‘BL1’ is a tetraploid fruit, one that comes from a plant with four copies of each chromosome in its cells. That means it has twice the normal number of chromosomes as a typical diploid plant, like a raspberry. Working with a tetraploid is more complex than a diploid.

“The release of this tetraploid blackberry genome can contribute to more efficient and targeted breeding, ultimately leading to the development of new cultivars with enhanced fruit quality, and resistance to important diseases,” Deng says. “The reference genome created from this research can be a powerful tool for anyone working with blackberries.”

The genome assembly also uncovers the secrets behind key traits like growing thornless blackberries and the enhanced production of anthocyanin, which affects the color and health benefits of the fruit.

“This finding can help us understand why blackberries develop their characteristic deep purple/black color over time and how to potentially enhance this process for more nutritious berries” he adds.

For more, continue reading at blogs.ifas.ufl.edu.