Recent advances in tomato functional genomics: utilization of VIGS

Protoplasma. 2012 Oct;249(4):1017-27. doi: 10.1007/s00709-012-0421-7. Epub 2012 Jun 6.

Abstract

Tomato unquestionably occupies a significant position in world vegetable production owing to its world-wide consumption. The tomato genome sequencing efforts being recently concluded, it becomes more imperative to recognize important functional genes from this treasure of generated information for improving tomato yield. While much progress has been made in conventional tomato breeding, post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) offers an alternative approach for advancement of tomato functional genomics. In particular, virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is increasingly being used as rapid, reliable, and lucrative screening strategy to elucidate gene function. In this review, we focus on the recent advancement made through exploiting the potential of this technique for manipulating different agronomically important traits in tomato by discussing several case studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gene Silencing
  • Genetic Vectors / genetics
  • Genomics / methods*
  • Plant Viruses / genetics*
  • Solanum lycopersicum / genetics*
  • Solanum lycopersicum / virology