Genetically modified tomatoes contain more vitamin D

John Innes Center scientists genetically modified tomatoes to make them much richer in vitamin D. Using CRISPR gene editing, the team was able to increase provitamin D3 in both fruit and leaves.

Genetically modified tomato

An estimated one billion people worldwide are thought to be affected by vitamin D deficiency. Researchers genetically modified tomatoes to increase people’s access to vitamin D. Tomatoes naturally contain one of the building blocks of vitamin D3, called provitamin D3 or 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC), but these are mostly found in small amounts in the unconsumed leaf parts.

Drawing on previous research, the team used CRISPR-Cas 9 gene editing to turn off the Sl7-DR2 enzyme for the accumulation of provitamin D3 in tomato fruit. Turning off the enzyme increased the amount of 7-DHC in tomato overall.

A tomato with vitamin D3 formed after exposing 7-DHC to UVB light was observed to contain vitamin D levels equivalent to two medium eggs or 28 g of tuna. The researchers note that prolonged exposure to UVB during sun drying will further increase the vitamin D in ripe fruits.

Professor Cathie Martin, co-author of the study: “We have shown that using gene editing you can bioenhance tomatoes with provitamin D3, which means that tomatoes can be developed as a plant-based, sustainable source of vitamin D3.” made statements.

The team found that the genetic modification of the tomato is a significant improvement in tomato plants. stated that it did not affect its growth, development or yield. In addition, the leaves of new tomatoes can be used for the production of vegan-friendly vitamin D3 supplements.