A number of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been revealed to have roles
in biological processes. However, the biological functions of most plant
lncRNAs are still unknown. Ran Li of China Agricultural University
previously discovered a tomato ripening-related lncRNA, lncRNA1459. The team
aimed to study lncRNA1459 and explain its function in tomato ripening. To
fully identify the function of lncRNA1459 in tomato ripening, Li and
colleagues used CRSIPR-Cas9 to develop loss-of-function mutants of
lncRNA1459.

Compared with wildtype fruits, tomato ripening process was significantly
repressed in lncRNA1459 mutants. Ethylene production and lycopene
accumulation were also largely repressed in these mutants. Furthermore,
genes related to ethylene and carotenoid biosynthesis were also
downregulated in the mutants compared with wild type fruits.

Expressions of numerous ripening-related genes, including other potential
tomato ripening-related lncRNAs, were specifically changed after knocking
out lncRNA1459.

The results provide insight into the role of lncRNA1459 in the tomato fruit
ripening.



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