Overview
- CSHL researchers report two compact, flavorful goldenberry lines identified after multi‑generation selection, though the fruits are slightly smaller.
- The team produced high‑quality genome assemblies and used transformation and editing to target both sub‑genome copies of ERECTA to redesign plant architecture.
- Resulting plants were about 35% shorter, which supports denser cultivation and easier field management.
- Next steps include additional CRISPR edits to restore fruit size and introduce resilience traits such as resistance to diseases, pests, or drought.
- Seeds are not yet available to growers pending further regulatory clearance, with the work aiming to expand a crop now largely produced in Colombia and a few other regions.