Genome-wide association study reveals the genetic architecture of 27 yield-related traits in tomato

Abstract Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a highly valuable vegetable crop and yield is one of the most important traits. Uncovering the genetic architecture of yield-related traits in tomato is critical for the management of vegetative and reproductive development, thereby enhancing yield. Here we perform a comprehensive genome-wide association study for 27 yield-related traits in tomato. A total of 239 significant associations corresponding to 129 loci, harboring many reported and novel genes related to vegetative and reproductive development, were identified, and these loci explained an average of ~8.8% of the phenotypic variance. A total of 51 loci associated with 25 traits have been under selection, especially during tomato improvement. Furthermore, a candidate gene, SlALMT15 that encodes an aluminum-activated malate transporter, was functionally characterized and shown to act as a pivotal regulator of leaf stomata formation through increasing photosynthesis and drought resistance. This study provides valuable information for tomato genetic research and breeding.