Genomics, Genetics, and the Future of Fruit Improvement
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Plant Sciences".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 145
Special Issue Editor
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Genomics and genetics are indispensable for understanding and manipulating fruit quality, a complex trait impacting both flavor and shelf life. Fruit ripening, a precisely orchestrated developmental process, involves a cascade of gene expression changes affecting numerous metabolic pathways. These pathways drive alterations in fruit color (through chlorophyll degradation and anthocyanin synthesis), texture (via cell wall modifications), flavor (mediated by sugar accumulation and volatile compound production), and aroma (driven by the biosynthesis of esters, aldehydes, and other volatile compounds). Transcription factors are essential master regulators that coordinate the expression of genes involved in fruit ripening, and identifying and characterizing these fruit-related genes is vital for understanding the genetic basis of fruit characteristics. Discoveries in this area allow researchers to develop strategies for improving fruit appearance and quality traits, extending shelf life, and optimizing post-harvest management.
Modern genomics technologies and genome editing provide powerful tools for dissecting the genetic basis of fruit characteristics. NGS enables comprehensive analysis of gene expression profiles throughout the ripening process, revealing the temporal and spatial regulation of key genes. Genome editing allows for precise modification of gene function, enabling researchers to assess the impact on fruit characteristics and to develop fruit varieties with desirable traits, such as fruit size and shape, extended shelf life, enhanced flavor, or improved nutritional value. Integrating genomics with other “omics” approaches (transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics) allows for a holistic understanding of the complex interactions between genes, proteins, and metabolites during fruit development, thus paving the way for targeted genetic improvement strategies and sustainable agricultural practices.
This Research Topic focuses on showcasing the latest progress in fruit genomics and genetics, specifically advancements made through genetic engineering, bioengineering, or environmental manipulation to alter fruit traits.
We welcome submissions exploring the following:
- New strategies for elucidating the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying fruit development and ripening;
- Transcriptomic studies investigating gene function in fruits;
- Innovative genetic modification techniques for altering fruit traits;
- The interaction between environmental factors and genetic predisposition in determining fruit characteristics;
- Systematic approaches to identify genes associated with specific fruit traits.
Dr. Zoe Hilioti
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.
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Keywords
- fruit traits
- genetics
- genetic diversity
- omics
- new breeding techniques
- fruit quality
- shelf life
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