Introduction
Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are often considered undesirable. When walking down the aisle of a grocery store, most people will constantly see labels reading “organic” and “non-GMO”. But could genetically engineered crops have advantages?
Gene Editing
An innovative study by scientists at Johns Hopkins University has discovered genes that control how large particular tomatoes and eggplants will grow. This could lead to bigger, tastier crops for society to enjoy. The study may specifically lead to the development of larger varieties of heirloom tomatoes and eggplants through genetic editing of the crops. This scientific breakthrough may also help support agriculture in areas where local varieties are currently too small for large-scale production. The tiny genetic tweak in the DNA of these crops may change the course of agriculture by revolutionizing the way we grow and consume crops.
How Would It Work?
To better understand the potential this process may have, the Boyce Thomson Institute used gene-editing technology to tweak one or two duplicates of a gene. This was done to see how the tweaks changed mature plants. Once an acceptable tomato or eggplant variant is created, then it will continue to be developed. According to Michael Schatz, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor, “Once you’ve done the gene editing, all it takes is one seed to start a revolution.” If done properly, the discovery could pave the way for a new era of larger, juicier tomatoes and eggplants.
Conclusion
This discovery, through the genetic editing and duplication of tomatoes and eggplants, may revolutionize agriculture for a new era. By yielding tastier crops, genetic modification will be beneficial to society, and by improving local varieties, it will support agricultural markets around the world. Despite the cautiousness society has with GMOs, genetic engineering is a helpful and innovative way to improve the crops that we use and enjoy every day.
Related Stories:
https://interestingengineering.com/science/gene-editing-in-tomatoes-eggplant
https://hub.jhu.edu/2025/03/05/engineering-genes-to-grow-bigger-tomatoes-and-eggplants/
https://newatlas.com/biology/gene-edit-bigger-tomatoes-eggplants/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/03/250305134702.htm
Take Action:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08619-6
