Targeting a particular gene may improve tea plants' flavor and cold tolerance
Researchers in China have identified a light-responsive gene, CsBBX19, in tea plants that regulates the balance of catechins and theanine to improve flavor while simultaneously conferring cold tolerance. This discovery provides a valuable target for breeding high-quality, stress-resistant tea varieties that can grow in diverse locations.
Why it matters
Identifying this gene opens up new possibilities for agricultural breeding to develop superior tea crops capable of withstanding climate challenges while maintaining premium taste.
edited by Gaby Clark , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add to Preferred Sources Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Research in New Phytologist reveals a gene that regulates tea plants' flavor and cold tolerance, providing insights on how to expand the potential for better-tasting tea to be grown in a wider variety of locations.
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