A high-quality genome assembly of the eggplant provides insights into the molecular basis of disease resistance and chlorogenic acid synthesis

The eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the most important Solanaceae crops, ranking third for total production and economic value in its genus. Herein, we report a high-quality, chromosome-scale eggplant reference genome sequence of 1155.8 Mb, with an N50 of 93.9 Mb, which was assembled by combining PacBio long reads and Hi-C sequencing data. Repetitive sequences occupied 70.1% of the assembly length, and 35,018 high-confidence protein-coding genes were annotated based on multiple sources. Comparative analysis revealed 646 species-specific families and 364 positive selection genes, conferring distinguishing traits on the eggplant. We performed genome-wide comparative identification of disease resistance genes and discovered an expanded gene family of bacterial spot resistance in eggplant and pepper, but not in tomato and potato. The genes involved in chlorogenic acid synthesis were comprehensively characterized. Highly similar chromosomal distribution patterns of polyphenol oxidase genes were observed in the eggplant, tomato, and potato genomes. The eggplant reference genome sequence will not only facilitate evolutionary studies of the Solanaceae but also facilitate their breeding and improvement.

Automated summary

The study presented a high-quality eggplant reference genome sequence, which will aid in research on evolution, disease resistance genes, and chlorogenic acid synthesis.