Genetics and evolutionary insights from Solanaceae genome sequences

The availability of genome sequence resources and genomic information enables the functional characterization of genes in crop plants. These genes can be used in targeted crop breeding to accelerate crop improvement. Publication of genome assemblies of major Solanaceae crops and their wild relatives during the last decade has provided information for basic research and breeding programs. This review discusses the current status of Solanaceae genome sequencing studies, as well as genetics and evolutionary insights gained from them. Comparative analyses of the high-quality genome sequences revealed the evolutionary history of the genomes. The studies also shed new insights into the diversification of species accompanied by changes in the sizes, content, and organization of genomes. Annotation of the sequenced genomes further revealed gene networks and the putative function of genes involved in the evolution of a number of phenotypic traits. Future studies with more genomes of other Solanaceae crops and wild relatives from different clades will facilitate the reconstruction of more comprehensive phylogenies and the identification of genetic bases for phenotypic diversification across the family.