Genome sequence analysis provides insights into the mode of 2 n egg formation in Solanum malmeanum

Key message Our genomic investigation confirms the mechanism of 2 n eggs formation in S. malmeanum and aid in optimizing the use of wild germplasm. Abstract Wild potatoes are a valuable source of agronomic traits. However, substantial reproductive barriers limit gene flow into cultivated species. 2 n gametes are instrumental in preventing endosperm abortion caused by genetic imbalances in the endosperm. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of 2 n gametes. Here, the wild species Solanum malmeanum Bitter (2 x , 1EBN, endosperm balance number) was used in inter- and intrapoloid crosses with other Solanum species, with viable seeds being produced only when S. malmeanum was used as the female parent to cross the 2EBN Solanum genus and with the likely involvement of 2 n gametes. Subsequently, we substantiated the formation of 2 n eggs in S. malmeanum using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and genomic sequencing technology. Additionally, the transmission rate of maternal heterozygous polymorphism sites was assessed from a genomic perspective to analyze the mode of 2 n egg formation in S. malmeanum × S. tuberosum and S. malmeanum × S. chacoense crosses; each cross acquired an average of 31.12% and 22.79% maternal sites, respectively. This confirmed that 2 n egg formation in S. malmeanum attributed to second-division restitution (SDR) coupled with the occurrence of exchange events. The high-throughput sequencing technology used in this study has strong advantages over traditional cytological analyses. Furthermore, S. malmeanum , which has a variety of excellent traits not available from present cultivated potato genepool, has received little research attention and has successfully achieved gene flow in cultivated species in the current study. These findings will facilitate the understanding and optimization of wild germplasm utilization in potatoes.