On the PopuLation gEnomics of trAnsposable elementS in frUit tReEs – PLEASURE

Transposable elements (TEs) are major components of eukaryotic genomes and supposed to be evolutionary catalyzers. Unlike the extensive information available for annual crops, the role of TEs in adaptation of perennial crops, such as fruit trees, has been studied in less depth. Yet, the domestication of perennials is expected to follow different processes than annuals, with distinct genetic outcomes. The PLEASURE project will compare TE insertion polymorphism and their impact of gene regulation in crop-wild population pairs of four temperate fruit trees (apples, pears, apricots, almonds), based on the joint study of SNPs and TEs, and experiments. This ambitious project that combines genomics and experimental approaches will generate original results adding to our understanding of the role of TEs in the evolution of genetic diversity and innovation in perennials, and ultimately in adaptation of population to recent environmental changes, together with the applied consequences of the findings.