Summary:

Researchers at The Ohio State University have discovered that the tomato fruit shape gene SUN increases fruit elongation in a semi dominant manner. The gene affects shape by the redistribution of fruit mass since weight is not affected. The changes in fruit shape occur after anthesis during the early part of fruit development. Other organ shapes are affected as well, most notably leaf shape.

An elongated tomato fruit shape is a desired characteristic for the processing industry since those fruit would not roll of conveyer belts; will fit better in cans than round fruit and in the fresh market industry, the consumer demands are increasing for better tasting and alternatively shaped tomato fruit. Therefore, control of tomato fruit shape is an essential trait to select when breeding for varieties with improved agronomical, horticultural and nutritional values.

Potential Applications:

• Food Processing Industry
• Fresh Market Industry
• Fruit and Vegetable Seed Suppliers

Advantages:

• Controls fruit shape
• Controls other organ shape
• Weight of fruit is not affected
• Change occurs after anthesis