Epigenetic Insights Reveal How Grapes Ripen Faster
Chinese Academy of SciencesEarly fruit ripening is a valuable trait for grape cultivation, but the underlying epigenetic mechanisms have remained elusive. A new study uncovers how CHH site hypermethylation influences the early ripening phenotype of 'Fengzao', a bud mutant of the popular 'Kyoho' grape. Using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing, researchers demonstrated that higher promoter methylation, particularly at the JOX1 gene, plays a critical role in accelerating ripening. These findings offer fresh insights into the epigenetic regulation of berry development and could inform strategies to control fruit ripening in viticulture.