Scientists Identify Genetic Region Behind Thorn Formation in Blackberries.

A team of researchers has made a significant breakthrough in blackberry genetics by identifying the specific genetic region responsible for the development of thorns—technically known as prickles. This discovery could greatly accelerate the breeding of thornless blackberry varieties, which are preferred in the U.S. market due to their ease of harvest and reduced damage to fruit.

The findings were published in the journal G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics. The study was led by Margaret Worthington, an associate professor of fruit breeding and genetics at the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, part of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, and the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.

Worthington explained that until now, blackberry breeders lacked the genetic knowledge to understand why some plants naturally grow without thorns. Identifying the genetic basis for this trait had been a long-standing challenge, partly due to the complexity of blackberry genetics. All fresh-market blackberry varieties are tetraploids, meaning they possess four sets of chromosomes—double that of humans—making genetic mapping significantly more complex.

With no previously known genetic locus, or gene location, tied to the prickly trait, Worthington viewed this as an essential area of focus since 2016. She emphasized the importance of the team's findings, noting that this is the first diagnostic genetic marker ever developed and published for any trait in blackberries.

Ellen Thompson, a co-author of the study and Global Rubus Breeding and Development Director at Hortifrut Genetics, also underscored the discovery’s importance. She stated that these are the first publicly available markers for both fresh-market and processing blackberry varieties. Genetic markers like these allow breeders to make quicker, more informed decisions—well before plants reach the field.

Thompson added that although Hortifrut Genetics has already achieved 100% thornless blackberry production, these new markers will allow the program to incorporate desirable traits from thorny varieties while maintaining a thornless result. The ability to identify and select thornless seedlings early in the breeding process saves time and enhances efficiency.

To identify the genetic region responsible, the researchers conducted a genome-wide association study using DNA samples from 374 blackberry varieties, both thorny and thornless. They applied genotyping techniques to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)—small variations in the genetic code linked to specific traits. The SNPs identified in the study act as markers pointing to the thorn-related genetic region.

The study also revealed a region on chromosome Ra04 that displayed low genetic variation, forming what is known as a “linkage disequilibrium block,” where genes and markers tend to be inherited together. This finding further supports the association between this chromosome and thorn development.

While this research represents a major step forward, Worthington hopes future studies will identify the precise gene responsible for the trait, deepening our understanding and improving breeding outcomes even further.

Source:https://phys.org/news/2025-05-team-homes-genetics-blackberry-thorns.html

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.