Source: NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIV submitted to
VACCINIUMCAP: LEVERAGING GENETIC AND GENOMIC RESOURCES TO ENABLE DEVELOPMENT OF BLUEBERRY AND CRANBERRY CULTIVARS WITH IMPROVED FRUIT QUALITY ATTRIBUTES
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
EXTENDED
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1020223
Grant No.
2019-51181-30015
Project No.
NC09879
Proposal No.
2019-03177
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Program Code
SCRI
Project Start Date
Sep 1, 2019
Project End Date
Aug 31, 2024
Grant Year
2019
Project Director
Iorizzo, M.
Recipient Organization
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIV
(N/A)
RALEIGH,NC 27695
Performing Department
Horticultural Science
Non Technical Summary
This project will establish a nationwide coordinated transdisciplinary research approach to develop and implement marker assisted selection (MAS) capacity in Vaccinium breeding programs, to enable breeders to select and pyramid fruit characteristics (FCs) that positively contribute to fruit quality and market value. Vaccinium crops (blueberry and cranberry) provides vital contributions to human health and well-being, and collectively constitutes the economic backbone of many U.S. rural communities. Vaccinium genetic and genomic resources are developing rapidly but have not been translated to routine practical application. Specific objectives are to: (1) establish a cost effective genotyping platform to expand marker-trait association analysis (MTA) in Vaccinium, exploiting the shared ancestry of Vaccinium crops; (2) identify DNA markers linked to fruit characteristics and elucidate how and which fruit characteristics affect fruit quality, relative to consumer preferences, decay during mechanical harvest, processing and distribution; (3) develop DNA assays to implement MAS in core Vaccinium core breeding programs with a common focus on fruit quality traits; (4) enlarge market potential, and increase consumption of Vaccinium fruits by using socio-economic knowledge of consumer preferences to inform breeding; and (5) enhance sustainability of cultivar development by transferring MAS technologies to public and private U.S. Vaccinium breeding programs through training current and future breeders as well as engaging the production, distribution, processing and marketing sectors, allied scientists, and consumers. This Coordinated Agricultural Project proposal addresses SCRI Focus Area 1 (70%) and Focus Area 2 (30%).
Animal Health Component
0%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
40%
Applied
5%
Developmental
55%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
2011120108130%
2011121108130%
6071120309010%
2041120100010%
2041121100010%
5031120102010%
Knowledge Area
204 - Plant Product Quality and Utility (Preharvest); 201 - Plant Genome, Genetics, and Genetic Mechanisms; 607 - Consumer Economics; 503 - Quality Maintenance in Storing and Marketing Food Products;

Subject Of Investigation
1120 - Blueberry; 1121 - Cranberry;

Field Of Science
3090 - Sensory science (human senses); 1081 - Breeding; 1000 - Biochemistry and biophysics; 1020 - Physiology;
Goals / Objectives
Status: Vaccinium (blueberry and cranberry) breeders have little empirical data to assign level of importance to fruit characteristics (FCs) relative to consumer preferences, decay during production, processing and distribution, and few tools to select for high fruit quality. As a result, blueberry and cranberry cultivars often produce fruit with inconsistent appearance, texture and sensory profiles that do not consistently meet consumer expectations, processing and production quality needs. The Vaccinium industry recognized the need to improve fruit quality as the key breeding target for continued success.Mission statement: Address major bottlenecks for growth of U.S. Vaccinium industry, by creating a nationwide coordinated transdisciplinary research approach to develop and implement marker assisted selection (MAS) capacity in Vaccinium breeding programs, to enable breeders to select and pyramid fruit characteristics (FCs) that positively contribute to fruit quality and market value. In the long term, this mission will increase production of fruit with improved characteristics that meet the ever-changing industry, market, and consumer preferences.Specific project objective are: 1) Establish genomic resources to enable effective association mapping studies in blueberry and cranberry; 2) Discover DNA markers and fruit characteristics that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences in blueberry and cranberry; 3) Deliver molecular and genetic resources to improve blueberry and cranberry fruit quality traits that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences; 4) Assess the potential socio-economic impact of blueberry and cranberry fruit quality improvements on market demand; 5) Engage U.S. Vaccinium breeders and stakeholder groups to transfer advanced phenomics and genomics tools to build a more coordinated and efficient cultivar development system.
Project Methods
Obj. 1.The comparative genomic team will use a selected set northern highbush (NHB), southern highbush (SHB) and cranberry (CB), to assemble the pangenome that is aimed at identifying the core and dispensable portions of the genome. The core genome represents genes shared by all genotypes, whereas the dispensable portion includes the genes present only in a subset of the genotypes. Core genomes will be compared to identify the core genes shared by NHB, SHB, and CB. The genotyping team will use the pangenome as a reference to identify SNPs, test and validate a cost-effective high-throughput genotyping platform.Obj. 2.The statistical genetics and phenomic teams (blueberry and cranberry) will use high-throughput genotyping platform and phenomic approaches to identify alleles for fruit characteristics (chemical composition, texture, and appearance) by QTL and GWAS analysis. The fruit quality team will use a pre-selected set of blueberry cultivars to identify blueberry FC sub-components (eg. firmness, sugars) that contribute to extended shelf life, meeting consumer preferences and to reduce bruising damages during mechanical harvest. This outcomes, will allow us to establish a link between DNA markers associated with FCs, and fruit quality attributes.Obj. 3. The statistical genetic team will validate FC-QTLs across multiple genetic backgrounds. Validated FC-QTLs will be used as a target site to develop and validate a high-throughput affordable assay for Vaccinium FCs, that can be used to implement marker assisted selection (MAS). The breeding teams will use validated SNPs to identify breeding parents and 'pyramid' multiple positively associated markers into superior genotypes. Multiple superior FCs allele donors, and F1 progenies with pyramided FC alleles will be made available to breeders U.S.-wide.Obj. 4.The socio economic team will combine blueberry sensory tests and choice experiments, biometrics parameters and willingness to pay elicitations to identify FCs and sensory characteristics that affect (positively and/or negatively) purchasing behavior. For cranberry, an online survey and a choice experiment will be conducted with a representative sample of U.S. consumers to (a) quantify consumerss discount for cranberry products with an "added-sugar" line on the nutrition facts panel label, (b) measure heterogeneity in responses across consumer segments, and (c) evaluate the effect of information framing. The results will be used to assess consumers' accuracy in evaluating sugar content and evaluate how this affects purchase intent and willingness to pay.Obj. 5.The Extension team and the Data Management teams, in collaboration with all project participants will develop multiple outreach activities/tools (on-line platforms, webinars, workshops, forums, coomodity group meetings) to engage Vaccinium stakeholders by: 1) transferring and training them on project deliverables, 2) educating them about project outcomes, 3) fostering new collaborations, and 4) soliciting feedback on the project to fine-tune research and extension activities. Target stakeholders are national and international blueberry and cranberry partners that represent breeders, researchers (breeder's allied scientists), mentees/trainees (staff, mentored students and post docs), extension specialists, industry stakeholders (producers, processors, distributors, and nurseries), as well as the members of the Advisory Panel (AP) that represent these audiences. An external evaluator will work with the Project Management and Extension Teams to regularly gather, analyze, and interpret feedback from breeders and extension audiences, including systematic collection of input on project goals, activities, progress, mid-course corrections, and communication and extension strategies.

Progress 09/01/22 to 08/31/23

Outputs
Target Audience:Blueberry and cranberry breeders; post-harvest physiologists, food scientists, germplasm collection curators, molecular geneticists, and other allied scientists of these crops; nurseries, producers, processors, marketers, and marketing organizations of Vaccinium crops; and consumers of these crops. Changes/Problems:The delay of funding release from the USDA-NIFA during Year 1 and COVID-19 requirements during 2020-2022, delayed multiple activities and led the team to request a one-year no cost extension. A summary of affected activities and alternative plans are summarized below: Obj. 1. Development of genotyping platforms was delayed. As a result, delivery of the genotypic data for genetic studies expected in Y4 was delayed and will be completed in Year 5. Obj. 2. Delay in the delivery of genotypic data delayed some of the genetic studies. To ensure success of the genetic studies and expand our capacity to detect and validate QTLs across studies, additional materials including four mapping populations and a new cranberry diversity panel were added to the project for genetic studies. A new method with increased throughput to evaluate organic acids (OA) was used to during year 4 and analysis is planned to be completed during Year 5. Due to COVID-19, and the loss of a key PI due to illness evaluation and analysis of cranberry data at Rutgers was delayed. During year 4 evaluation of fruit texture and structure was completed, and data analysis will be performed during year 5. Obj. 3. Due to the delay in completing genetic studies, validation of QTLs was also delayed. To facilitate integration of novel QTLs that are expected to be detected from genetic studies that are being delayed, team members imitated efforts to anchor QTLs identified during Y1-Y4 in mapping populations, and from previous studies into the blueberry and cranberry physical maps. Efforts to perform functional characterization of candidate genes were also initiated. As new QTL studies are being completed, this framework will facilitate identification of QTLs that overlap across multiple studies and will be considered as validated across multiple genetic stocks. Obj. 4. Due to logistic difficulties in accessing large amounts of fruit from selected blueberry cultivars, as well as feedback from stakeholders on research questions with higher priorities, the proposed research on consumer behavioral response to fruit tasting using biometric parameters was re-designed into a new study to elicit the sensory quality attributes that would increase demand. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project participants include 6 post-doctoral researchers, 13 professionals and technicians, along with 18 graduate students and undergraduate students fully or partially funded by the project across all the VacCAP team programs. These trainees are participating in VacCAP activities for phenotyping, genomic analysis, DNA profiling, development of DNA informed breeding strategies, data management and communication. These personnel are gaining knowledge, experience, and skills in accurate measurement of fruit characteristics, fruit physiology, phenotyping engineering, statistical analyses, quantitative genetics, bioinformatics, design and implementation of genetic tests, and breeding program planning and management. In addition, these participants are members of project teams and undertake targeted training through webinars, workshops and one-on-one in-person training on texture analysis. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Updates about the VacCAP project and preliminary results were disseminated to the scientific community, including the U.S. wide community of Vaccinium crop breeders, through 17 peer reviewed publications and 50 posters and oral presentations at regional, national and international conferences (including the American Society of Horticultural Science, Plant & Animal Genome conferences, National Association of Plant breeding annual meeting). The information was also disseminated to the broader Vaccinium community (producers, processors and distributors) through 16 oral presentations at commodity group meetings, 13 VacCAP/GDV newsletter and blog articles, and two articles in trade magazines. Four webinars and eight instructional videos were delivered to transfer project outcomes/deliverables. Stakeholders and the general public were also engaged by feeding project updates and new information related to the project mission through two web sites (VacCAP and GDV) and a Twitter account (@VacciniumCAP). To engage the public and students, VacCAP PIs participated in and/or organized 21 outreach events targeting K12 middle and high schools, college students and the general public. Events included blueberry and cranberry field days, science fairs, and short lab training classes. Outreach activities were aimed at introducing students and general public to plant science and horticulture, breeding, food science, and scientific lab experiences based on protocol/research. All these activities emphasized the importance of breeding programs for blueberry and cranberry production, and general crop production. These events contribute to enhance public understanding and interest in learning and careers in plant science and specifically in plant breeding. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. Establish genomic resources to enable effective genome wide association mapping studies in blueberry and cranberry. Finalize identification of dispensable genes that have fruit specific expression patterns in the Vaccinium pan-genome to identify cultivar-specific genes associated with fruit quality Finalize data analysis of cranberry testing data Continue coordination of samples submission for genotyping from the VacCAP genotyping consortium Prepare new manuscripts and complete manuscripts under re-revision for dissemination of results Objective 2. Discover DNA markers and fruit characteristics that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences in blueberry and cranberry. Complete analysis of phenotypic data collected for FqStudy sets to identify FCs that contribute to reduced bruising and sensorial texture Complete genotyping cranberry diversity panel (Rutgers DP) Initiate efforts for functional characterization of candidate genes controlling FCs Continue QTL mapping in biparental populations and GWAS in GenStudy sets Prepare new manuscripts and complete manuscripts that are under re-revision for dissemination of results Objective 3. Deliver molecular and genetic resources to improve blueberry and cranberry fruit quality traits that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences. Analyze phenotypic data collected during year 1-4 from the ValStudy sets Analyze blueberry DNA assay data (KASP) and evaluate possible use of haplotype on prediction accuracy; Continue testing DNA assays for organic acids, wax, and fruit shape that were developed for cranberry in more diverse populations to evaluate sensitivity and specificity Validate performance of genotypes selected during year 1-4 for advancing them into trials or for use as a parent in new crosses Plant seedlings so they are evaluated for their potential contribution to FC Prepare new manuscripts for dissemination of results Objective 4. Assess the potential socio-economic impact of blueberry and cranberry fruit quality improvements on market demand. Finalize the analyses of the blueberry sensory and willingness-to-pay data collected in year 3 Complete re-assessment of industry breeding priorities Prepare new manuscripts and complete manuscripts under re-revision for dissemination of results Objective 5. Engage U.S. Vaccinium breeders and stakeholder groups to transfer advanced phenomics and genomics tools to build a more coordinated and efficient cultivar development system. On-line platforms: Update VacCAP and GDV and train core and non-core labs on GDV through new training videos. Develop new issues of the GDV newsletter to update national and international partners on new tools and resources available on GDV Continue developing new VacCAP trait information sheets Newsletter and other media: release three newsletters; publish articles in trade magazines; maintain VacCAP accounts on social media Webinars: deliver four webinars Workshops: engage core and non-core labs to transfer method used to evaluate fruit quality traits Develop instructional videos on the use of new methodologies for fruit quality phenotyping developed by our team members, as well as evaluation and comparisons of equipment available to stakeholders Commodity group meetings: disseminate progress and results to commodity group meetings Annual meeting: organize the VacCAP annual meeting (in-person and Zoom accessible, Geinesville, Florida) Continue to engage and educate the general public about the project outcomes and impacts through outreach activates our website, newsletter, and social media Project evaluation: continue project evaluation activity to improve stakeholder engagement, communication, and effectiveness of extension activities. Initiate development of impact statements.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Obj. 1. Expanded Genomic resources. A haplotype resolved assembly of a HortbluePetitexNui progeny (tetraploids) was developed. The assembly is resolving a complex locus linked to a QTL for anthocyanin content on chromosome 2. Finalized and released annotations of blueberry and cranberry cultivars and a pangenome graph. Initiated efforts for identification of dispensable genes that have fruit specific expression patterns. Advanced development of the Vaccinium Genotyping platform. Completed validation of the 22K blueberry and 17K cranberry genotyping platforms. Results confirmed that the platforms are highly informative across cultivated and wild blueberry and cranberry germplasms. Continued coordination of samples submission from member of the genotyping consortium, and secured a new discounted price for submissions in year 5. The consortium include 13 members representing public and publish breeding programs, from U.S., France, New Zealand, Canada and Italy and have genotyped 10,300 samples. Overall, these activities are expanding use of molecular tools in blueberry and cranberry breeding and research programs and facilitating genetic discoveries. Obj. 2. Advanced phenotyping methods. Blueberry: 1) Evaluated relationship between acoustic system and mechanical texture analysis; 2) Continued to improve a web application to evaluate bruising rate. Cranberry: 1) Tested a new method to evaluate internal structure; 2) developed a trait ontology; 3) Developed software 'CARP' (Cranberry Assessment for Rot Prediction) to phenotype FRR. 4) Initiated development of a Hyperspectral Agricultural Research Vehicle for field phenotyping. Phenotyped genetic study sets (GenStudy). Blueberry: evaluated pH, TA, sugars, organic acids (by HPLC) in the NHB and SHB GenStudy sets (N=2,000). Cranberry: evaluated yield, vigor and fruit shape, size, internal and externa appearance, Tacy, fruit weight, color, yield, % fruit rot, total anthocyanin, brix and TA, organic acids, multiple morphological, phenological traits (e.g. number of fruit per upright branch) and texture on self-pollinated plants (N=847), diversity panels (Rutgers. N=312, and Wisconsin, N=350), MP4 (N=141), MP5 (N=68) and MP6. Advanced FC genetic studies. Blueberry: completed QTL analysis for volatiles, anthocyanin content and composition, organic acids, TA, pH, sugars and texture. Major effect QTLs were identified for anthocyanin (acylated and glycosylated), 33 volatiles, citric acid, malic acid, quinic acid, shikimic acid, pH, and TA. No QTLs or very low effect QTLs were identified for sugars and texture, respectively. Except for volatiles that were not tested for multiple years all major QTLs were stables across multiple years. Efforts to identify candidate genes underlying major QTLs were initiated. Cranberry: completed three genetic studies for fruit rot resistance (FRR), epicuticular wax (ECW), size and shape related traits, chemistry (Tacy, TA, Brix), uprights and Yield traits. Highlights from these studies were: QTL for ECW overlap with QTLs for FRR, stable QTLs for Tacy and traits related to size and shape related were identified. Preliminary results from other genetic studies identified QTLs for TA, Benzoic acid and Malic acid, ECW and texture parameters. Fruit quality (FQ) studies. 1) completed one study to identify FCs that contribute to extended shelf-life. The study identified berry size and some mechanical texture parameters as traits that could be used to select for improved texture and appearance at harvest and post-storage. 2) Performed a new experiment to evaluate the relationship between sensorial texture and mechanical texture. 3) Completed evaluation of bruising rate. Obj.3. Phenotyped germplasm for FC-QTL validation. Blueberry: phenotyped FCs (pH, TA, Sugars, TSS) on NHB (N=132), and SHB (N=101) ValStudy sets. Advanced validation of FC-QTLs. Blueberry: seven QTL regions associated with volatiles and chlorogenic acid, were considered validated since they were detected across multiple genetic backgrounds. Efforts to identify candidate genes and possible polymorphisms to target for DNA assay development were initiated. Advanced simple DNA assay design. Blueberry: KASP assays targeting SNPs associated with eucalyptol content were tested. Preliminary results indicated a mid-level prediction accuracy. Efforts to use haplotype information to increase prediction accuracy were initiated. Cranberry: validated a DNA assay using PACE technology targeting SNPs associated with epicuticular wax and FRR. The marker is highly sensitive. Initiated marker development for other QTLs. Leveraged FC phenotypic data for breeding selection. Blueberry and cranberry: continued making selections for genotypes with good performance for FC and propagated selections for trialing. Crosses of superior individuals were also performed and will be germinated in the fall of 2023 and spring 2024. Obj. 4. Completed phenotyping blueberry sensory set. Finalized evaluation of pH, TA, TSS, sugars and volatiles on blueberry cultivars used for willingness to pay (WTP) study. Phenotipic, sensory and WTP data for 42 NHB and 40 SHB collected from two years, two locations was integrated and mining of the data to identify salient sensory attributes and fruit characteristics is ongoing. Finalized a study assessing WTP for cranberry products from fruit developed using CRISPR technology. The results indicated that consumers are in general averse to the use of alternative breeding methods such as CRISPR in cranberry production. However, the discount for added sugars in cranberry products is larger than the discount for CRISPR, implying that consumers may be more receptive of breeding methods such as CRISPR if its use results in products with reduced sugar content. Completed a study assessing consumer preference for labels associated with blueberry sensory quality (Sweety, Crunchy, Stay Fresh). Results indicated that "Stay Fresh" is the wording on the label of packaged blueberries that resulted in the lowest own price elasticity. This imply that the label "Stay Fresh" (a phrase that signals longer shelf life and freshness) could favor potential demand increase as compared to "Sweety" or "Crunchy." labels. Initiated distribution of a breeding priority survey. The outcomes of these studies are informing breeders and producers about possible strategies to reduce the negative impact of the added sugar labels on cranberry consumption and trigger purchase decisions and repeated purchases for blueberry. Obj. 5. Updated On-line platforms: added new data and information in the GDV and VacCAP websites. Products made available through these platforms include: 1) seven newsletters; 2) seven instructional videos; 3) one VacCAP traits information sheets; 4) four webinar videos. Maintained the VacCAP Twitter account that has 379 followers and had 1,375 impressions/month in Y4. Webinars: delivered four webinars, attended by 148 participants. Provided project updates at 13 grower association meetings in U.S. Project evaluation: survey data, feedback and recommendations were collected from 48% of webinar participants, including breeders and scientists from public and private organizations, technical staff members, post-docs and students, and education/extension specialists. More than 80 percent reported that each webinar "greatly" or "moderately" improved their understanding of the topics (82% to 100% across four webinars) and almost all would recommend the webinars to others (93% to 100%). Feedback and recommendations gained from Y3 were integrated into Y4 activities, and feedback received in Y4 is being considered in planning future activities.Over 21,000 (11,842 GDV+ 9,251 VacCAP) users/viewers and 347 newsletter subscribers from >99 countries accessed VacCAP and GDV. Evaluation matrix indicates that the project is reaching a very broad audience and the resources/information generated in the project have a positive impact on this community.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Mengist MF, MH Grace, T Mackey, B Munoz, B Pucker, NV Bassil, C Luby, M Ferruzzi, MA Lila and M Iorizzo. (2022). Dissecting the genetic basis of bioactive metabolites and fruit quality traits in blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L). Frontier in Plant Science, 13:964656.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Herniter IA, Kim Y, Wang Y, Havill JS, Johnson-Cicalese J, Muehlbauer GJ, Iorizzo M and Vorsa N. (2023). Trait mapping of phenolic acids in interspecific (Vaccinium corymbosum var. caesariense x V. darrowii) diploid blueberry population. Plants, 12:1346.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Erndwein L, Kawash J, Knowles S, Vorsa N and Polashock J. (2023). Cranberry fruit epicuticular wax benefits and identification of a wax-associated molecular marker. BMC Plant Biol. 23(1):181.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Albert NW, Iorizzo M, Mengist MF, Montanari S, Zalapa J, Maule A, Edger PP, Yocca AE, Platts AE, Pucker B and Espley RV. (2023) Vaccinium as a comparative system for understanding of complex flavonoid accumulation profiles and regulation in fruit. Plant Physiology, 192(3), 16961710.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Nguyen HM, Putterill J, Dare AP, Plunkett BJ, Cooney J, Peng Y, Souleyre EJF, Albert NW, Espley RV and G�nther CS. Two genes, ANS and UFGT2, from Vaccinium spp. are key steps for modulating anthocyanin production. Frontiers in Plant Science, 14 (2023): 1082246.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Jacobs M, Thompson S, Platts AE, Body MJA, Kelsey A, Saad A, Abeli P, Teresi, A Schilmiller SJ, Beaudry R, Feldmann MJ, Knapp SJ, Song G, Miles T and Edger PP (2023) Uncovering genetic and metabolite markers associated with resistance against anthracnose fruit rot in northern highbush blueberry, Horticulture Research, uhad169.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Torres-Meraz MA, de La Torre F, Berro I, Loarca J, Mura J, Ikeda S, Atucha A, Giongo L, Iorizzo M and Zalapa J. (2023) A Survey of Key Methods, Traits, Parameters, and Conditions for Measuring Texture in Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). Horticulturae. Apr 11; 9(4):479.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: : Montanari S, Thomson S, Cordiner S, G�nther CS, Miller P, Deng CH, McGhie T, Kn�bel M, Foster T, Turner J, Chagn� D and Espley R. (2022) High-density linkage map construction in an autotetraploid blueberry population and detection of quantitative trait loci for anthocyanin content. Frontiers in Plant Science. 13:965397.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Ma X, Gallardo RK, Canales E, Atucha A, Zalapa J and Iorizzo M. Would Consumers Accept CRISPR Fruit Crops if the Benefit Has Health Implications? An Application to Cranberry Products. Agricultural and Resource Economics Review.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Maule AF, Diaz-Garcia L, Loarca J, Lopez-Moreno H, Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Iorizzo M, Neyhart J and Zalapa J. (2023) Of Buds and Bits: A QTL Study on Traditional Upright Traits and Modern Plot Phenotyping in Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). Frontiers in Plant Sciences  Plant Breeding.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Torres-Meraz M, Jarquin D, Lazar F, Loarca J, Maule A, Ikeda S, Giongo L, Grygleski E, Neyhart J, Iorizzo M and Zalapa J. (2023) Multiparametric fruit textural trait development for harvest and postharvest in representative cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpom Ait.) cultivars differing in texture. Postharvest Biology and Technology.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Ferr�o FLV, C Luby, M Pottorff, GIP Casorzo, M Fentie Mengist, T Mikey, MA Lila, L Giongo, N Bassil, P Perkins-Veazie, M Iorizzo and PR. Munoz. Inference of the genetic basis of fruit texture and chemical component in Northern and Southern Highbush blueberries. Scientia Horticulturea.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Trandel-Hayse M, Oh H, Iorizzo M, Johanningsmeier S and Perkins-Veazie P. Blueberry cell wall composition helps to explain fruit firmness phenotypes. ACS Food Science and Technology.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Oh H, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Mainland CM, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. Exploring shelf-life predictability of appearance traits and fruit texture in blueberry. Postharvest Biology and Technology
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Yocca AE, Platts A, Alger E, Teresi S, Mengist MF, Benevenuto J, Ferr�o LFV, Jacobs M, Babinski M, Magallanes-Lundback M, Bayer P, Golicz A, Humann JL, Main D, Espley RV, Chagn� D, Albert NW, Montanari S, Vorsa N, Polashock J, D�az-Garcia L, Zalapa J, Bassil NV, Munoz PR, Iorizzo M, Edger PP (2023) Blueberry and cranberry pangenomes as a resource for future genetic studies and breeding efforts. Horticulture Research
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2023 Citation: Ma X, Gallardo RK, Canales E, Atucha A, Zalapa J and Iorizzo M. Consumers Discount for Added Sugars: An Application to Cranberry Products Under Different Nutrition-Related Information Treatments. Journal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2023 Citation: Ma X, Gallardo RK, Canales E and Iorizzo M. Quality-Related Descriptors to Increase Fresh Blueberries Purchase - Evidence from a Basket-Based Choice Experiment. Journal of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Knowles S, Kawash J, Spain T, Erndwein L, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polashock J and Vorsa, N. Exploring fruit chemistry in a fruit rot resistance American cranberry mapping population and QTL discovery. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Conference. Chatsworth, NJ. August 21-24, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Knowles S, Kawash J, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polashock J and Vorsa N. Relationships between fruit rot resistance and horticultural traits in American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). American Seed Trade Association Vegetable & Flower Seed Conference. Orlando, FL. January 27-31, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Prasad R, Duiven J, Fraser A, Smits C, Vorsa N and Johnson-Cicalese J. Performance of high-yield cranberry selections from the Rutgers breeding program in southwestern British Columbia. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Conference. Chatsworth, NJ. August 21-24, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Knowles S, Herniter IA, Traband R, Bowman C, Wang X, Lo S, Wysocki K, Chitwood DH, Johnson-Cicalese J, Jia Z and Vorsa N. Unusual leaf and fruit morphology in a low titratable acidity cranberry population. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Conference. Chatsworth, NJ. August 21-24, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Bassil et al. VacCAP Develops High Throughput Genotyping Platforms for Blueberry and Cranberry. 2023. Annual Conference of the American Society for Horticultural Science. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Clare et al. Assessment of the Flex-Seq Platform in Vaccinium. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Nahla Bassil, Mandie Driskill, Shaun Clare, Ping Zheng, David Chagne, Sara Montanari, Susan, Thompson, Richard Espley, Patricio Munoz, Juliana Benevenuto, Dongyan Zhao, Moira, Sheehan, Molla Mengist Fentie, Lisa J. Rowland, Hamid Ashrafi, Kalpalatha Melmaiee, Ebrahiem Babiker, James Olmstead, Jessica Gilbert, Joel Kniskern, Juan Zalapa, James, Polashock, Massimo Iorizzo and Patrick Edger. Leveraging Vaccinium genomic resources for genotyping in blueberry and cranberry. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P., Massimo Iorizzo, Heeduk Oh, Farah Saeed and Changying Li. Fruit Bruising, Firmness, and Estimation of Cell Membrane Damage across Blueberry Genotypes. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Bassil N., Driskill M., Clare S., Ping Zheng, David Chagne, Sara Montanari, Susan, Thompson, Richard Espley, Patricio Munoz, Juliana Benevenuto, Dongyan Zhao, Moira, Sheehan, Molla Mengist Fentie, Lisa J. Rowland, Hamid Ashrafi, Kalpalatha Melmaiee, Ebrahiem Babiker, James Olmstead, Jessica Gilbert, Joel Kniskern, Juan Zalapa, James, Polashock, Massimo Iorizzo and Patrick Edger. VacCAP Develops High Throughput Genotyping Platforms for Blueberry and Cranberry. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Kawash J and Polashock J. 2023. Developing a new machine learning tool for improved genomic selection in non-model systems. Meeting: Mapping the Future of Agricultural Genome to Phenome Research in Kansas City, Missouri on June 15-16, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Erndwein L and Polashock J. 2023. Two-year survey of cranberry fruit rotting fungi detects azoxystrobin and thiophanatemethyl resistant Colletotrichum siamense. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Conference in Absecon, New Jersey on August 21-24, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Kawash J, Dehzangi I, Mehedi Azim S and Polashock J. 2023. Hyperspectral imaging and the application of machine learning for rapid phenotyping of cranberry samples. North American Cranberry Research and Extension Workers Conference in Absecon, New Jersey on August 21-24, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Torres-Meraz MA, Devi Mura J, Ikeda S, Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Iorizzo M, Neyhart J and Zalapa J. 2023. Phenomics of Processing Industry Fruit Quality Traits for Genetic Mapping in the American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Torres-Meraz MA, Mura JD, Ikeda S, Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Iorizzo M, Neyhart J and Zalapa J. 2023. Unraveling the genetic bases of fruit quality in the American cranberry. NACREW. Absecon, New Jersey, August 22, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Loarca J, Mura JD, Ikeda S, Vorsa N, Iorizzo M, Johnson-Cicalese J, Neyhart J and Zalapa J. 2023. Fruit Quality phenotyping for breeding and genetic studies in cranberry. Alejandra Torres-Meraz, NACREW. Absecon, New Jersey, August 22, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Cheng CH, Jung S, Lee T, Buble K, Humann J, Zheng P., ... and Main D. 2023. Open-Source Solutions for Efficiently Building Community Databases for Crop Genomics, Genetics, and Breeding Research. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Main D. 2023. Hands-on Training for Effective Use, Data Contribution, and Options for Long Term Sustainability of Specialty Crop Community Databases. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Gasic K, Humann J, Yu J and Main D. 2023. Breeding Information Management System (BIMS) for Crop Breeders. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Main D, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Zheng P, Gasic K, Humann J., & and Buble K. 2023. Hands-on Training for Effective Use, Data Contribution, and Options for Long Term Sustainability of Specialty Crop Community Databases. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Main D, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Zheng P, Gasic K, Humann J., & and Buble K. 2023. Resources for Fruit Breeding Research in Databases for Rosaceae, Vaccinium, and Citrus. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Humann J, Jung S, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Zheng P, Gasic K, & and Main D. 2023. Updates on Genomic Data and Tools in Rosaceae, Cotton, Citrus, Vaccinium, and Pulse Crop Databases. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Jung S, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Zheng P, Humann J, Gasic K, & and Main D. 2023. Updates on Genetics Data and Tools in Rosaceae, Cotton, Citrus, Vaccinium, and Pulse Crop Databases. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Bassil N, Jung S, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Zheng P, Gasic K, & and Main D. 2023. Updates on Germplasm and Diversity Data and Tools in Rosaceae, Cotton, Citrus, Vaccinium, and Pulse Crop Databases. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Iorizzo M, Lila M, Perkins-Veazie P, Luby CH, Vorsa N, Edger P, Bassil NV, Munoz P, Zalapa JE, Gallardo KR, Atucha A, Main D, Giongo L, Li C, Polashock JJ, Sims C, Canales E, Devetter L, Coe M, Chagne D, Colonna A and Espley R. (2023) VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Acta Horticulturae. 1362:71-80.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo, L., Ajelli, M., Pottorff, M., Coe, K., Perkins-Veazie, P., Bassil, N.V., Hummer, K.E., Farneti, B. and Iorizzo, M. 2023. Comparative study on texture: a key for blueberry quality breeding. Acta Horticulturae 1357, 107-114.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Perkins-Veazie, P., Ma, G., Pottorff, M., Lila, M.A. and Iorizzo, M. (2023). New tools for rapid fruit quality analysis in blueberry. Acta Horticulturae 1357, 193-198.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Iorizzo M., M.A. Lila, P. Perkins-Veazie, N. Vorsa, P. Edger, N. Bassil, P. Munoz, J. Zalapa, K.R. Gallardo, A. Atucha, D. Main, L. Giongo, C. Li, J. Polashock, C. Sims, E. Canales, L. M. Coe, D. Chagne, R. Espley and L. De Vetter. 2022. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Proceedings of the ISHS International Symposium on Breeding and Effective Use of Biotechnology and Molecular Tools in Horticultural Crops. Acta Horticulturae 1362, 71-80
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Humann, J.L., Cheng, C.-H., Lee, T., Buble, K., Jung, S., Yu, J., Zheng, P., Hough, H., Crabb, J., Frank, M., Scott, K., Iorizzo, M. and Main, D. 2023. Using the Genome Database for Vaccinium for genetics, genomics, and breeding research. Acta Horticulturae 1357, 115-122
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Oh H, Mengist MF, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M. Mapping QTLs for postharvest fruit texture and size characteristics in blueberry. Plant & Animal Genomics Conference (PAG) 30. January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, CA, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Oh H, Mengist MF, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M. Identification of QTLs related to fruit texture at harvest and postharvest in blueberry. Tools for Polyploids Workshop 2023. January 11-12, 2023, San Diego, CA, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Trandel-Hayse M.A., Oh H., Johanningsmeier S., Iorizzo M. and P. Perkins-Veazie. Peel and Pulp Texture Parameters Are Negatively Correlated to Pectin and Cellulose Content in Ten Highbush Blueberry Cultivars. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P., Ma G., Oh H., Trandel-Hayse M.A., Bassil N., Luby C., Munoz P.R. and M. Iorizzo. Development of a High-Throughput Method to Evaluate Soluble Sugar Content of Large Sets of Blueberry Fruit. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: M. Iorizzo. Genetics, genomics, germplasm improvement to advance breeding of berries. 1st Latin American Congress of Berries, August 24-25, Chill�n, Chile.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Molla Fentie Mengist, Marti Pottorff, Lara Giongo, Ted Mackey, Felipe Ferrao, Mary Ann Lila, Claire Luby, Nahla Bassil, Patricio R. Munoz, Penelope Perkins-Veazie and Massimo Iorizzo. Assessing Genetic Parameters and Predictability for Shelf Life Parameters in Blueberry. ASHS 2023 Annual Conference, July 31-August 4, 2023, Orlando, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Mengist M.F. , M.H. Grace, T. Mackey, B. Munoz, B. Pucker, N. Bassil, C. Luby, M. Ferruzzi, M.A. Lila and M. Iorizzo. Investigating the genetic basis of bioactive metabolites and fruit quality traits in blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.). XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Iorizzo M. Exploring fruit/vegetable nutrigenomic properties as new target traits to improve phytochemicals and nutrients uptake/health outcomes. 7th Annual UF Plant Science Symposium, January 30-31, 2023, Gainesville, FL, US.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Iorizzo M. Vaccinium CAP status and updates: advancing genetic and genomic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Southeaest Regional Fruit & Vegetable Conference, January 6, 2023, Savannah, GA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: M. Iorizzo. Leveraging genetic and genomic tools to improve bioactive delivery/use from fruit and vegetables. CNR  ISPA, Italy. November 15, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Borges et al. 2023. Development of molecular markers for flavor improvement in autotetraploid blueberry. Polyploid across the tree of life, May 9-12, 2023, Palm Coast, FL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. 2023. Advancing Genomic Methods and Knowledge in Blueberry. Plant and Animal Genome. XXX Plant & Animal Genome, January 13-18, 2023, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Strategies applied to the selection and development of new blueberry varieties. In Te Puke, New Zealand, June 15, 2023.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Generating tools and resources for a more informed breeding process. Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences seminar series, October 02, 2022. Ithaca, NY
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Generating tools and resources for a more informed breeding process. Rutgers Fall graduate program seminar series. November 18, 2022. Newark, NJ
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Breeding Blueberry for Improving Eating Experience. Minnesota Plant Breeding Center Seminar Series, May 12, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Strategies applied to the selection and development of new blueberry varieties. 1st Latin American Congress of Berries, August 24-25, Chill�n, Chile.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Martensson K, Loarca J and Zalapa J. Analyzing cranberry fruit quality and internal structure. UW-Madison Undergraduate Research Symposium, December 12, 2022, Madison-WI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J and H Herline. Varietal trial bed expansion: building the future genetic structure of cranberry. Proceedings article in the 2023 summer cranberry meeting and Field Day, page 19-20.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. USDA-ARS Food Science and Fruit Quality Ad hoc committee research roundtable meeting. Madison WI. 3-29-2023.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Cranberry research at the Walnut Street greenhouse UW, CALS Leadership tour. UW-Madison. 5-22-2023
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Cranberry cultivar fruit quality and yield discussion with UMass-Amherst. Zoom meeting. 4-11-23.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Cranberry cultivar fruit quality and yield discussion with Wisconsin growers. Zoom meeting. 4-21-23.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Blueberry breeding program at FEM: an integrated approach to innovate through new varieties for Northern and Southern Europe  MacFrut 2023 Rimini, Italy, May 3-5.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Quality evaluations and requirements at harvest and postharvest for new cultivars of highbush blueberry. 11th Blueberry Conference Warsaw, Poland, March 9-10, 2023
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Developments and impacts of fruit quality analyses in blueberry: a focus on texture and postharvest. International Blueberry School, 2nd May 2023, Ancona, Italy.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: De Vetter L. Breeding Efforts in Berry Crops Growing By Leaps and Bounds. Growing Produce, Dec 20, 2022. https://www.growingproduce.com/fruits/berries/breeding-efforts-in-berry-crops-growing-by-leaps-and-bounds/?utm_source=gp&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=2212
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Mirtillo, a caccia dei geni per renderlo migliore. Terra e Vita, n. 34-2022, November 11.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Luby C., Hislop L., M. Iorizzo, L. Giongo, A. Atucha, L. Wasko DeVetter and Russo J. Blueberry Shelf Life. April 18, 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/VacTrait%20Shelf%20Life.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: DeVetter and Bassil. 2023. VacCAP: Improving Fruit Quality. Oregon State University Blueberry Field Day. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Lopez-Moreno H, Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Torres-Meraz MA, de La Torre F, Berro I, Loarca J, Mura JD, Ikeda S, Atucha A, Giongo L, Iorizzo M, Zalapa JE. 2023. A survey of key methods, traits, parameters, and conditions for measuring texture in cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). U Mass Cranberry Management Update. East Wareham, Mass., January 25, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: M. Iorizzo. VacCAP Project updates. North Carolina Blueberry Council  57th Annual Open House and Trade Show, January 10, 2023, Fayeteville, NC, USA. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Polashock J and Sarowar S. Gene Functional Analysis in Cranberry. American Cranberry Growers Assoc. Winter Meeting, Bordentown, NJ, January 19, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Knowles S and Spain T. Update on Cranberry Breeding Projects. American Cranberry Growers Assoc. Winter Meeting, Bordentown, NJ, January 19, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Kawash J and Polashock J. 2023. Updating Approaches to Fruit Rot Resistance Research. American Cranberry Growers Assoc. Winter Meeting, Bordentown, NJ, January 19, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Erndwein L, Kawash J and Polashock J. Cranberry Fruit Epicuticular Wax Benefits and Identification of a Wax-Associated Molecular Marker. American Cranberry Growers Assoc. Winter Meeting, Bordentown, NJ, January 19, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Munoz P. Research update and new cultivars. Florida Blueberry Growers Association. October 20, 2022. Howdy on the hill, FL. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Mini clinic: Cranberry variety trail and VaCap traits showcase. Wisconsin Cranberry Growers Asscociation summer meeting. Black River Falls, WI, August 9, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Cranberry Research Round Table. Zalapa Lab Summary of activities, including VaCcap report to the Wisconsin growers. November 17, 2022. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Wisconsin Cranberry Board Research Report. Black River Falls, Wi, March 15, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J. Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association meeting. Black River Falls WI, July 6, 2023. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Blueberry breeding program at FEM: an integrated approach to innovate through new varieties for Northern and Southern Europe. May 21, 2023 Meeting with Spanish and Chilean growers. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Blueberry breeding program at FEM: an integrated approach to innovate through new varieties for Northern and Southern Europe. July 6, 2023 Meeting with Spanish growers. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Blueberry breeding program at FEM: an integrated approach to innovate through new varieties for Northern and Southern Europe. July 11, 2023 Meeting with Italian growers. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Giongo L. Blueberry breeding program at FEM: an integrated approach to innovate through new varieties for Northern and Southern Europe. July 13, 2023 Meeting with English growers. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Iorizzo M. Understanding the W85 Blueberry Genome. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 6, March 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/w85genome
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Iorizzo M. Exploring the New Frontier of Flavonoid Genetics in Blueberry. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 6, March 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/frontierofflavonoidgenetics
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L, Lopez-Moreno H and Zalapa J. Survey Says: How the Zalapa Team Is Identifying the Best Methods for Measuring Texture Traits in Cranberry. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 7, June 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/texturesurvey
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: DeVetter L. A Tribute to Bernadine Strik  Berry Goddess. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 7, June 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/bernadinetribute
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Trandel-Hayse M. A Deeper Look Into Blueberry Cell Wall Composition and Fruit Firmness Phenotypes. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 8, August 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/blueberrycellwallcomp
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Russo J. VacCAP for All: Cranberry Fruit Epicuticular Wax Benefits and Identification of a Wax-Associated Molecular Marker. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 8, August 2023. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/sites/default/files/inline-images/VacCAP%20for%20All%20Cranberry%20Wax.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issue 5, (October 2022). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-Oct2022.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issue 6, (January 2023). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-Jan2023.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issue 7, (April 2023). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-Apr2023.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issue 8, (July 2023). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-Jul2023.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Trandel-Hayse M, Oh H, Iorizzo M, Johanningsmeier S, Perkins-Veazie P. 2022. Blueberry cell wall composition helps to explain fruit firmness phenotypes. Fla State Hort Soc, Scientific note
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zalapa J., F. Lazar, F. De la Torre, H. Lopez-Moreno. 2023. The Importance of Genetics in Cranberry Production. College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Division of Extension Integrated Pest Management Program Nutrient and Pest Management Program. Wisconsin Fruit Program. Available Online: https://ipcm.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2023/04/UW_CranberryBacktoBasics.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M. Autopolyploid Inheritance & Heterozygous Reciprocal Translocation Shape Chromosome Genetic Behavior on December 16, 2022. Webinar presentation.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Bassil N. and S. Clare. Two New Flex-Seq-EX-L High Throughput Genotyping Platforms for Blueberry and Cranberry on January 26, 2023. Webinar presentation.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Polashock J. Wax On, Acid Off: Approaches to Cranberry Fruit Improvement on April 24, 2023. Webinar presentation.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Montanari S. Understanding the Genetic Control of Anthocyanin Content in Blueberry on May 25, 2023. Webinar presentation.


Progress 09/01/21 to 08/31/22

Outputs
Target Audience:Blueberry and cranberry breeders; post-harvest physiologists, food scientists, germplasm collection curators, molecular geneticists, and other allied scientists of these crops; nurseries, producers, processors, marketers, and marketing organizations of Vaccinium crops; and consumers of these crops. Changes/Problems:Obj. 1. The delay of funding release from the USDA-NIFA during Year 1 and COVID-19 requirements during 2020-2022, delayed the development of genotyping platforms (Obj. 1). As a result, delivery of the genotypic data for genetic studies expected in Y3 was delayed and will be completed in Year 4. To compensate for some of the impacted activities, team members completed complementary activities including finalizing linkage maps and new Vaccinium genomes and performing comparative analysis to improve the quality of the available genomes by the Comparative Genomics Team. Obj. 2. Delay in the delivery of genotypic data is in turn delaying some of the genetic studies. To ensure success of the genetic studies and expand our capacity to detect and validate QTLs across studies, additional materials including four mapping populations and a new cranberry diversity panel were added to the project for genetic studies. A new method with increased throughput to evaluate organic acids (OA) using HPLC is under evaluation and if validated will be used during year 4 to evaluate FL and/or OR GenStudy sets. To compensate for possible delays in OA genetic analysis from the large GenStudy set material, a lower throughput HPLC assay was used to evaluate a mapping population. Due to COVID-19, transplanting of the cranberry diversity panel at Dr. Nick Vorsa's location in NJ had to be postponed, delaying phenotyping FCs in this material. Activities that were delayed will be completed in Year 4. Obj. 3. Due to the delay in completing genetic studies, validation of QTLs was also delayed. To facilitate integration of novel QTLs that are expected to be detected from genetic studies that are being delayed, team members imitated efforts to anchor QTLs identified during Y1-Y3 in mapping populations, and from previous studies into the blueberry and cranberry physical maps. As new QTL studies are being completed, this framework will facilitate identification of QTLs that overlap across multiple studies and will be considered as validated across multiple genetic stocks. Obj. 4. Due to logistic difficulties in accessing large amounts of fruit from selected blueberry cultivars, as well as feedback from stakeholders on research questions with higher priorities, the proposed research on consumer behavioral response to fruit tasting using biometric parameters was re-designed into a two-part study. First is an assessment of growers' willingness-to-pay considering blueberry quality traits and information that growers in other countries are adopting new blueberry varieties. Second, we will assess consumers' propensity to purchase blueberries considering different labels that inform buyers about blueberry quality traits. The outcomes expected from these two studies are similar to the originally proposed research and will provide additional information that seems to be more relevant to the blueberry industry. Obj. 5. Outreach to the general public and stakeholders through in-person events continued to be limited due to Covid-19. We have responded with additional webinars and publications to help disseminate project results to our stakeholders. Overall: Due to health conditions and/or professional career opportunities, multiple PIs, students and post-docs left their positions and are moving out of the project, creating some challenges to manage the different experiments. Administrative and program activities to manage the personnel turnover have been and are being evaluated and actions will be taken to ensure project outcomes are not affected. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project participants include 5 post-doctoral researchers, 12 professionals and technicians, along with 15 graduate students and undergraduate students fully or partially funded by the project across all the VacCAP team programs. These trainees and technicians are participating in VacCAP activities for phenotyping, genomic analysis, DNA profiling, development of DNA-informed breeding strategies, data management and communication. These personnel are gaining knowledge, experience, and skills in accurate measurement of fruit characteristics, fruit physiology, phenotyping engineering, statistical analyses, quantitative genetics, bioinformatics, design and implementation of genetic tests, and breeding program planning and management. In addition, these participants are members of project teams and undertake targeted training through webinars, workshops and one-on-one in-person training on texture analysis. During year 3, three students completed their degree (Masters and Phd). How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Updates about the VacCAP project and preliminary results were disseminated to the scientific community, including the U.S.- wide community of Vaccinium crop breeders, through 14 peer reviewed publications and 25 posters and oral presentations at regional, national and international conferences (including the American Society of Horticultural Science and Plant & Animal Genome conferences). The information was also disseminated to the broader Vaccinium community (producers, processors and distributors) through 10 oral presentations at commodity group meetings, 9 VacCAP/GDV newsletter articles, and two articles in trade magazines. Three webinars and eight instructional videos were delivered to transfer project outcomes/deliverables. Stakeholders and the general public were also engaged by feeding project updates and new information related to the project mission through two web sites (VacCAP and GDV) and a Twitter account (@VacciniumCAP). To engage the public and students, VacCAP PIs participated in and/or organized 12 outreach events targeting K12 middle and high schools, college students and the general public. Events included blueberry and cranberry field days, science fairs, and short lab training classes. Outreach activities were aimed at introducing students and general public to plant science and horticulture, food science, and scientific lab experiences based on protocol/research. All these activities emphasized the importance of breeding programs for blueberry and cranberry production and general crop production. These events contribute to enhance public understanding and interest in learning and careers in plant science and specifically in plant breeding. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. Establish genomic resources to enable effective genome wide association mapping studies in blueberry and cranberry. Finalize annotation of the Vaccinium pan-genome to identify cultivar-specific genes associated with fruit quality Complete testing and genotyping phase for cranberry Analyze blueberry and cranberry testing data Re-asses genotyping needs with members of the genotyping consortium to consider a new cycle of sample submission Prepare manuscripts for dissemination of results Objective 2. Discover DNA markers and fruit characteristics that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences in blueberry and cranberry. Analyze phenotypic data collected for FqStudy sets to identify FCs that contribute to longer shelf-life and reduced bruising Continue testing new protocols and evaluate new traits in GenStudy and FqStudy sets Perform QTL mapping in biparental populations and GWAS in GenStudy sets Prepare manuscripts for dissemination of results Objective 3. Deliver molecular and genetic resources to improve blueberry and cranberry fruit quality traits that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences. Analyze phenotypic data collected during year 1-3 from the ValStudy sets Continue testing protocols for simple DNA assay on a set of existing FC-QTLs Analyze blueberry DNA assay data (KASP) Test DNA assays for organic acids, wax, and fruit shape that were developed for cranberry in more diverse populations to evaluate sensitivity and specificity Validate performance of genotypes selected during year 1-3 for advancing them into trials or for use as a parent in new crosses Plant seedlings so they are evaluated for their potential contribution to FC Objective 4. Assess the potential socio-economic impact of blueberry and cranberry fruit quality improvements on market demand. Finalize the analyses of the blueberry sensory and willingness-to-pay data collected in year 3 and prepare manuscripts for dissemination of results Finalize new blueberry survey design, distribute the survey and analyze data Prepare/submit new manuscripts using cranberry survey data collected in year 1-2 Re-assess industry breeding priorities Objective 5. Engage U.S. Vaccinium breeders and stakeholder groups to transfer advanced phenomics and genomics tools to build a more coordinated and efficient cultivar development system. On-line platforms: Update VacCAP and GDV and train core and non-core labs on GDV through new training videos. Develop new issues of the GDV newsletter to update national and international partners on new tools and resources available on GDV Continue developing new VacCAP trait information sheets Newsletter and other media: release three newsletters; publish articles in trade magazines; maintain VacCAP accounts on social media Webinars: deliver four webinars Workshops: deliver two in-person workshops/trainings focusing on fruit texture and fruit quality analysis Develop instructional videos on the use of new methodologies for fruit quality phenotyping developed by our team members, as well as evaluation and comparisons of equipment available to stakeholders Commodity group meetings: disseminate progress and results to commodity group meetings Annual meeting: organize the VacCAP 4th annual meeting (in-person and Zoom accessible, Kannapolis or Raleigh, NC) Continue to engage and educate the general public about the project outcomes and impacts through outreach activates our website, newsletter, and social media Project evaluation: continue project evaluation activity to improve stakeholder engagement, communication, and effectiveness of extension activities

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Obj. 1. Expanded Genomic resources. Released a new blueberry genome (W85_v2) and five linkage maps. Uncovered a chromosome translocation in the blueberry cultivar 'Draper' that affects recombination behavior and demonstrated that tetraploid blueberry behaves as an autotetraploid. Completed annotation of the blueberry and cranberry pan-genomes, and conserved and genome specific genes were identified and used to design the genotyping platform. Advanced development of the Vaccinium Genotyping platform. Finalized testing of a 22K target capture genotyping platform for blueberry. Preliminary results indicated that this tool is highly informative across cultivated as well as wild blueberry germplasm. For cranberry, designed a 17K target capture genotyping platform which is being tested on 192 samples. A consortium that includes 14 members representing private and public breeding programs from the U.S., France, New Zealand, Canada and Italy have committed to genotype samples with these genotyping platforms. The project is expanding use of molecular tools in blueberry and cranberry breeding and research programs. Obj. 2. Advanced phenotyping methods. Blueberry: 1) Continued testing an acoustic system to evaluate fruit texture; 2) Improved a user-friendly learning-based web application to evaluate blueberry bruise from mechanical harvesters. Cranberry: 1) Tested a hyperspectral imaging system for higher throughput phenotyping to evaluate fruit rot, color, shape, size, and wax; 2) Finalized data analysis for texture methods in cranberry. Results indicate that 30 fruits are enough to evaluate texture in cranberry and that temperature and fruit orientation have a significant effect on texture measurements. Phenotyped genetic study sets (GenStudy). Blueberry: completed evaluating fruit characteristics (FCs) representing texture (puncture and double compression), appearance traits (size, scar diameter/tear, wet scar), shelf-life indicators (wrinkle/shrivel, mold, leakage and weight loss) and chemistry (pH, TA, SSC, sugars, organic acids, volatiles). During Y3 evaluated Northern Highbush (N=950), and Southern Highbush (N=980) GenStudy sets, and one mapping population (N=364). Cranberry: evaluated fruit weight, yield, % fruit rot, total anthocyanin, Brix and titratable acidity, organic acids, epicuticular wax on berries, and multiple morphological and phenological traits (e.g. number of fruit per upright branch) on MP3 (N=219) and a new genetic study set that included self-pollinated plants (N=847). Initiated evaluation for resistance to fruit scald. Advanced FC genetic studies. Blueberry: completed multiple studies for anthocyanin regulation and QTL studies for pH, TA, TSS, chlorogenic acid anthocyanin content and composition. Nine QTLs for TSS, TA, pH, total anthocyanin, chlorogenic acid, anthocyanin acylation and glycosylation were stable across years. Comparative analysis indicated that the regulation of anthocyanin- and proanthocyanidin-related by MYB proteins is conserved in Vaccinium species. Cranberry: completed two genetic studies for upright traits, berry shape/size, plot traits (e.g. yield) and other FC (TAcy, proanthocyanin-PAC, epicuticular wax). Highlights from these studies were: yield traits were positively correlated with plot and upright traits and negative correlated with PAC; QTLs were identified for all the traits, some QTLs were stable across the years, and three QTLs for yield, one for TAcy, and a QTL for fruit rot resistance overlap with those identified in previous studies. Fruit quality (FQ) studies. 1) Completed a second-year analysis of 60 blueberry cultivars in NC to identify FCs that contribute to extended shelf-life and reduced bruising. 2) Completed a study on cell wall composition in pulp and peel of crisp, firm, and soft blueberry cultivars at harvest. Differences in cell wall composition in the pulp and peel could explain differences in mechanical texture profiling. Obj.3. Phenotyped germplasm for FC-QTL validation. Blueberry: phenotyped FCs and shelf-life indicators on NHB (N=132), and SHB (N=101) ValStudy sets. Advanced validation of FC-QTLs. Blueberry: three QTL regions associated with pH/TA, anthocyanin acylation and anthocyanin glycosylation were considered validated since they were detected across multiple genetic backgrounds. Cranberry: two regions harboring major QTLs for total anthocyanin and color variation that were mapped in two populations overlap on the same physical map region and are being considered as validated. Advanced simple DNA assay design. Blueberry: optimized two high throughput DNA extraction protocols. HRM and KASP assays targeting SNPs associated with volatile accumulation were tested. Preliminary results indicated a mid to high level prediction accuracy, and the need to optimize primer design to amplify in more diverse germplasm. Cranberry: validated a DNA assay using PACE technology targeting SNPs associated with epicuticular wax within a mapping population. The marker is highly sensitive for predicting waxy fruit. Leveraged FC phenotypic data for breeding selection. Blueberry and cranberry: continued making selections for genotypes with good performance for FC and propagated selections made in Y2 for trialing based. Crosses of superior individuals were also performed and will be germinated in the fall of 2022. Obj. 4. Completed blueberry willingness to pay (WTP) and sensory surveys. A second year of WTP and consumer preference surveys were performed for 22 NHB and 20 SHB varieties, which total 42 NHB and 40 SHB samples across the two years, with 27 varieties assessed for both years. The phenotypic evaluation of texture was completed and chemistry analysis for all of the samples is being competed. Data will be used to identify salient sensory attributes and fruit characteristics. Finalized a cranberry study assessing WTP discount for added sugars. The study indicated that consumers discount for increases in added sugars in cranberry products (dried and cranberry juice), and such discount was not offset by health claims about consumption of cranberries. Also, consumers preferred other fruit juices as a sweetener compared to the addition of sugar. A second study assessing WTP for cranberry products from fruit developed using CRISPR technology with the result in a reduction in total sugar content is being completed. The outcomes of these studies are intended to inform breeders and producers about possible strategies to reduce the negative impact of the added sugar labels on cranberry consumption. Obj. 5. Updated On-line platforms: added new data and information in the GDV and VacCAP websites. Products made available through these platforms include: 1) five newsletters; 2) eight instructional videos; 3) two VacCAP traits information sheets. Maintained the VacCAP Twitter account that has 347 followers and had 7,118 visits in Y3. Webinars: delivered three webinars (see other products), attended by 170 participants. Provided project updates at 10 grower association meetings in U.S. Project evaluation: survey data, feedback and recommendations were collected from 48% of webinar participants, including breeders and scientists from public and private organizations, technical staff members, post-docs and students. Two thirds or more reported that each webinar "greatly" or "moderately" improved their understanding of the topics (66% to 97%) and almost all would recommend the webinars to others (83% to 100%). Feedback and recommendations gained from Y2 were integrated into Y3 activities, and feedback received in Y3 is being considered in planning Y4 activities. Over 11,700 users/viewers and 325 newsletter subscribers from >99 countries accessed these updated products/information in VacCAP and GDV. Overall, evaluation matrix indicates that the project is reaching a very broad audience and the resources/information generated in the project have a positive impact on this community.

Publications

  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Knowles S, Kawash J, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polashock J, Vorsa N. 2022. Phenotyping and genotyping CNJ14-31: A unique population segregating for fruit rot resistance, fruit chemistry and other traits (Bog 18). Annual Summer Meeting of the American Cranberry Growers Association. P.E. Marucci Center, Chatsworth, NJ. August 18, 2022. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Kawash J, Polashock J, Vorsa N, Johnson-Cicalese J. 2022. Identifying genetic markers for defense mechanisms in cranberry fruit. Winter Meeting of the American Cranberry Growers Association. January 20, 2022 (virtual). Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Polashock J, Oudemans P, Knowles S. 2022. Update on breeding for fruit rot resistance in cranberry. Winter Meeting of the American Cranberry Growers Association. January 20, 2022 (virtual). Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Polashock J, Kawash J. 2022. Visualizing cranberry fruit rot in a different light. Winter Meeting of the American Cranberry Growers Association. January 20, 2022 (virtual). Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Phillips M, Lopez-Moreno H, Diaz-Garcia L, Grygleskic E, Giongo L, Atucha A, Iorizzo M, and Zalapa J. 2022. Cranberry school presentation. Cranberry fruit quality genetic research and the VacCap project: distinguishing soft and firm berries. Cranberry School Proceedings 30, January 19-20, 2022. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Blueberry Field Day, Oregon State University, North Willamette Research & Extension Center, July 20, 2022, 2022. Improving Fruit Quality Through VacCAP https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/documents/11671/field-day-agendablueberry2022.pdf Oregon Blueberry Conference, Salem Convention Center, Salem, OR, February 14, 2022. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A. 2022. Cranberry fruit quality traits. Wisconsin Cranberry State Growers Association Field Day. 10 August, 2022. Black River Falls, WI. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zalapa J, Russo J, Atucha A. 2022. VaCTrait: Color in cranberries. April 5, 2022 Status: Online (https://www.vacciniumcap.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/Vactrait%20Color%20in%20Cranberries.pdf ). Handout
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M, Russo J, Hancock J. VaCTrait: Soluble solids concentration. April 5, 2022. Status: Online: https://www.vacciniumcap.org/sites/default/files/inline-files/VacTrait%20SSC.pdf
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Yurah K. 2021. Segregation of chlorogenic acids and flavonol glycosides in interspecific (Vaccinium corymbosum x V. darrowii) diploid F2 blueberry population. MS Thesis, Rutgers University. https://rucore.libraries.rutgers.edu/rutgers-lib/67084/
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Yalcin O. 2022. Quantitative trait loci analysis and cultivar identification in blueberry. MS Thesis, Oregon State University.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Yocca AE. 2022. "Leveraging angiosperm pangenomics to understand genome evolution". PhD Thesis, Michigan State University.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Montanari S, Thomson S, Cordiner S, G�nther CS, Miller P, Deng CH, McGhie T, Kn�bel M, Foster T, Turner J, Chagn� D and Espley R. (2022) High-density linkage map construction in an autotetraploid blueberry population and detection of quantitative trait loci for anthocyanin content. Frontiers in Plant Science. 13:965397.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Dare AP, G�nther CS, Grey AC, Guo G, Demarais NJ, Cordiner S, McGhie TK, Boldingh H, Hunt M, Deng C, Karppinen K, Jaakola L and Espley RV. (2022). Resolving the developmental distribution patterns of polyphenols and related primary metabolites in bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) fruit. Food Chemistry 374, 131703.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: : Lafferty DJ, Espley RV, Deng CH, G�nther CS, Plunkett B, Turner JL, Jaakola L, Karppinen K, Allan AC and Albert NW. (2022). Hierarchical regulation of MYBPA1 by anthocyanin- and proanthocyanidin-related MYB proteins is conserved in Vaccinium species. Journal of Experimental Botany. 73, 1344-1356.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Mengist MF, Bostan H, De Paola D, Teresi SJ, Platts AE, Cremona G,Xinpeng Q, Mackey T, Bassil NV, Ashrafi H, Giongo L, Jibran R, Chagn� D, Bianco L, Lila MA, Rowland LJ, Iovene M, Edger PP and Iorizzo M. 2022. Autopolyploid inheritance and a heterozygous reciprocal translocation shape chromosome genetic behavior in tetraploid blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). New Phytologist
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Fong SK, Kawash J, Wang Y, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polashock J, Vorsa N. 2021. A low malic acid trait in cranberry fruit: genetics, molecular mapping and interaction with a citric acid locus. Tree Genetics & Genomes 17:4
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Ma X, Gallardo RK, Canales E, Atucha A, Zalapa J and Iorizzo M. 2022. Consumers discount for added sugars: An application to cranberry products under different nutrition-related information treatments. Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Lafferty DJ, Espley RV, Deng CH, Dare AP, G�nther CS, Jaakola L, Karppinen K, Boase MR, Wang L, Luo H, Allan AC and Albert NW. 2022. The coordinated action of MYB activators and repressors controls proanthocyanidin and anthocyanin biosynthesis in Vaccinium. Frontiers in Plant Science. 13:910155.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Samkumar A, Karppinen K, McGhie TK, Espley RV, Martinussen I, Jaakola L. 2022. Flavonoid biosynthesis is differentially altered in detached and attached ripening bilberries in response to spectral light quality. Frontiers in Plant Science. 2529.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: G�nther CS, Plunkett BJ, Cooney J, Jensen D, Trower T, Elborough C, Nguyen HM, Deng C, Lafferty DJ, Albert NW, Dare AP and Espley RV. 2022. Biotic stress-induced and ripening-related anthocyanin biosynthesis are regulated by alternate phytohormone signals in blueberries. Environmental and Experimental Botany.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Edger PP, Iorizzo M, Bassil NV, Benevenuto J, Ferr�o LFV, Giongo L, Hummer K, Lawas LMF, Leisner CP, Li C, Munoz PR, Ashrafi H, Atucha A, Babiker EM, Canales E, Chagn� D, DeVetter L, Ehlenfeldt M, Espley RV, Gallardo K, G�nther CS, Hardigan M, Hulse-Kemp AM, Jacobs M, Lila MA, Luby C, Main D, Mengist MF, Owens GL, Perkins-Veazie P, Polashock J, Pottorff M, Rowland LJ, Sims CA, Song G, Spencer J, Vorsa N, Yocca AE and Zalapa J. 2022. There and back again; historical perspective and future directions for Vaccinium breeding and research studies. Horticulture Research 9, 10.1093/hr/uhac083.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Ni X, Takeda F, Jiang H, Yang WQ, Saito S and Li C. 2022. A deep learning-based web application for segmentation and quantification of blueberry internal bruising. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. 201:107200.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Alan E, Yocca, Patrick P. Edger PP. 2022. Current status and future perspectives on the evolution of cis-regulatory elements in plants. Current Opinion in Plant Biology. 65: 102139.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Teresi SJ, Teresi MB and Edger PP. 2022. TE Density: a tool to investigate the biology of transposable elements. Mobile DNA. 13, 11
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Trandel M, H Oh, Johanningsmeier S, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. Cell wall polysaccharide linkage assembly in blueberry peel and pulp reveals hemicelluloses specifically associated with the Indigocrisp cultivar. Frontier in Plant Science.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Ma X, Gallardo RK and Canales E. 2022. Consumers willingness to pay for gene editing breeding: Application to cranberry products. Annual Meetings of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association. Anaheim, CA. August 12.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Trandel-Hayse M, Oh H, Johanningsmeier S, Iorizzo M, Perkins-Veazie P. 2022. Cell wall polysaccharide composition in the peel and pulp of blueberry cultivars differing in fruit texture quality. 135th Florida State Horticulture Conference, June 5-7, Sarasota, FL.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Oh H, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Iorizzo M, Perkins-Veazie P. 2022. Texture characteristics associated with fruit shelf-life in blueberry. Southern Region Meeting, American Society for Horticultural Science, February 11, 2022, New Orleans, LA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Ma X, Canales E, Gallardo RK. Consumers discount for added sugars: An exploratory analysis of two cranberry products under different nutrition-related information treatments. Online Agricultural and Resource Economics Seminars (OARES). December 1, 2021.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Boase MR, McGhie T, Wang L, Zhang H, Luo H, King I, Lafferty DJ, Albert NW, Allan AC and Espley RV. 2022. Overexpression of VcMYBA1, a key anthocyanin transcription factor in highbush blueberry elevated anthocyanins, turning leaves dark red. Society of In Vitro Biology Meeting, 4-7 June 2022 in San Diego, California
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Bassil et al., 2022 VacCAP. Produces a targeted capture genotyping platform for blueberry. International Horticultural Congress. August 14-19, 2022. ePoster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Munoz P. 2022. Genome wide association of blueberry fruit quality traits. International Horticultural Congress. August 14-19, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Xueping N, Takeda F, Jiang H, Yang WQ, Saito S and Li C. 2022. A deep learning-based web Application to quantify blueberry internal bruising. International Horticultural Congress. August 14-19, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M, Lila MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Luby C, Vorsa N, Edger P, Bassil N, Munoz P, Zalapa J, Gallardo KR, Atucha A, Main D, Giongo L, Li C, Polashock J, Sims C, Canales E, De Vetter L, Coe M, Chagn� D, Colonna A and Espley R. 2022. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Acta IHC ISHS 2022
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Knowles S, Kawash J, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polashock J, Vorsa N. 2021. Relationships between fruit rot resistance and horticultural traits in American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). 12th International Vaccinium Symposium, International Society for Horticultural Sciences. Remote. August 30  September 1, 2021.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Mengist MF, Grace M, Mackey T, Bassil N, Luby C, Ferruzzi M, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. Dissecting the genetic basis of anthocyanins accumulation and diversity in blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L). ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Yalcin O, Finn C, Mackey T, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Iorizzo M, Mengist MF, Coe K, Hardigan M, Luby C, King R and Bassil N. 2022. QTL Analysis of phenological and fruit quality traits in a tetraploid highbush blueberry population. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M, Molla MF, Bostan H, De Paola D, Teresi S, Teresi A, Cremona G, Qi X, Mackey T, Bassil N, Ashrafi H, Giongo L, Jibran R, Chagne D, Bianco L, Lila MA, Rowland LJ, Iovene M and Edger P. 2022. Comparative genome analysis in blueberry revealed autopolyploid recombination behavior and a heterozygous reciprocal translocation. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M, Lila MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Pottorff M, Mengist MF, Colonna A, Vorsa N, Edger P, Bassil N, Luby C, Mackey T, Munoz P, Zalapa J, Gallardo KR, Atucha A, Main D, Giongo L, Li C, Polashock J, Sims C, Canales E, DeVetter L, Chagne D, Espley R and Coe M. 2022. Vaccinium CAP status and updates: advancing genetic and genomic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. NABREW conference, June 27-29, 2022, virtual.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Mengist MF, Bostan H, De Paola D, Teresi SJ, Platts A, Cremona G, Qi S, Mackey T, Bassil NV, Ashrafi H, Giongo L, Jibran R, Chagn� D, Bianco L, Finn C, Lila MA, Rowland LJ, Iovene M, Edger PP and Iorizzo M. 2022. Autopolyploid inheritance and a heterozygous reciprocal translocation shapes chromosome genetic behavior in tetraploid blueberries. XXIX Plant & Animal Genome, January 8-12, 2022, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M, Lila MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Pottorff M, Mengist MF, Colonna A, Vorsa N, Edger P, Bassil N, Luby C, Mackey T, Munoz P, Zalapa J, Gallardo KR, Atucha A, Main D, Giongo L, Li C, Polashock J, Sims C, Canales E, DeVetter L, Chagne D, Espley R and Coe M. 2022. Vaccinium CAP: A community-based project to develop advanced genetic and genomic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Acta Horticulturae, Proceeding of the International Symposium on Breeding and Effective Use of Biotechnology and Molecular Tools in Horticultural Crops, August 14-20, 2022, Angers, France.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo M, Mengist MF, Bostan H, Curaba J, Pottorff M. 2021. From genome to genes and DNA markers to improve agronomic performance and quality of fruit and vegetables crops. Genetyka Aplikacyjna Ro?lin XXI, September 22-24, 2021, Warsaw, Poland.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Pottorff M, Coe K, Giongo L, Bassil N, Luby C, Munoz PR, Ferrao F, Perkins-Veazie P and Iorizzo M. 2022. Analysis of northern highbush and southern highbush blueberry populations using an integrated phenotyping system to capture fruit texture characteristics and other traits at harvest and post-harvest. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Oh H, Pottorff M, Mengist MF, Giongo L, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. Examination of texture characteristics at harvest and postharvest and identification of QTLs in blueberry. Acta Horticulturae, Proceeding of the International Symposium on Advances in Berry Crops, August 14-20, 2022, Angers, France. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Giongo L, Ajelli M, Iorizzo M. La texture di mirtillo: saperla misurare � un primo passo per fare qualit�. Dossier September 2022 Rivista di Frutticoltura. Trade magazine.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Eddy D, Iorizzo M. Nationwide project going in search of better berries. Growing Produce, Jan 18, 2022. https://www.growingproduce.com/fruits/nationwide-project-going-in-search-of-better-berries/
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Giongo L. Breaking down fruit quality - Texture and its role in blueberry. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 4, April 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/textureinblueberry
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Edger P. Some assembly required: how the VacCAP team is developing the first Vaccinium pangenome. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 4, April 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/firstvacciniumpangenome
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Luby C. Get to know VacCAP team member Dr. Claire Luby. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 4, April 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/clairelubyfeature
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M. 2022. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Southeast Regional Fruit & Vegetable Conference, January 69, 2022, Savannah, GA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Oh H, Pottorff M, Mengist MF, Giongo L, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. Examination of texture characteristics at harvest and postharvest and identification of QTLs in blueberry. The 31st International Horticultural Congress (IHC). August 14-20, 2022, Angers, France. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Trandel-Hayse MA, Oh H, Johanningsmeier S, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. 2022. Peel and pulp texture parameters are negatively correlated to pectin and cellulose content in ten highbush blueberry cultivars. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P, Ma G, Oh H, Trandel-Hayse MA, Bassil N, Luby C, Munoz PR and Iorizzo M. Development of a high-throughput method to evaluate soluble sugar content of large sets of blueberry fruit. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Oh H, Pottorff M, Giongo L, Iorizzo M and Perkins-Veazie P. 2022. Dissecting the texture characteristics determining the phenotypic variation and postharvest change of fruit texture in blueberry. ASHS 2022 Annual Conference, July 29-August 3, 2022, Chicago, IL, USA. Poster
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P, Oh H, Trandel M, Ma G, Mainland CM, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2022. Changes in blueberry fruit chemistry after six weeks cold storage. Acta Horticulturae, Proceeding of the International Symposium on Advances in Berry Crops, August 14-20, 2022, Angers, France. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Chagn� D. A chromosome-scale assembly of the bilberry genome identifies a complex locus controlling berry anthocyanin composition. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 5, August 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/bilberrygenome
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Iorizzo M. High-density linkage map construction and identification of loci regulating fruit quality traits in blueberry. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 5, August 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/highdensitymap
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2022 Citation: Luby C. Innovative blueberry breeding: thoughts, priorities, and insights for the future. Oregon Blueberry Conference. Salem Convention Center, Salem, OR. February 14, 2022. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: DeVetter LW, Luby C and Bassil N. 2022. Improving blueberry fruit quality through VacCAP. Oregon State University Blueberry Field Day. 20 July, 2022. Aurora, OR. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J and DeVetter L. There and back again; historical perspective and future directions for Vaccinium breeding and research studies. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 5, August 2022. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/thereandbackagain
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issues 2, (January 2022). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-January2022.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issues 3, (April 2022). https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-April2022.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Humann JL and Main D. Genome database for Vaccinium newsletters, Issues 4, (July 2022. https://www.vaccinium.org/sites/default/files/files/GDV%20Newsletter-July2022.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Iorizzo M. VacCAP project updates. North Carolina Blueberry Council  56th Annual Open House and Trade Show, January 11, 2022, Harrells, NC, USA. Presentations for Growers or Other Industry Stakeholders


Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21

Outputs
Target Audience:Blueberry and cranberry breeders; post-harvest physiologists, food scientists, germplasm collection curators, molecular geneticists, and other allied scientists of these crops; nurseries, producers, processors, marketers, and marketing organizations of Vaccinium crops; and consumers of these crops. Changes/Problems:Obj. 1 Due to COVID-19 and delay of funding release from the USDA-NIFA during Year 1 the following activities were not performed as planned: Sequencing of the transcriptome from 12 cranberry samples was delayed resulting in a delay in downstream analysis (finalize the pan-genome construction) and developing the cranberry SNP catalog was delayed (Obj. 1b-c). Activities that were delayed have already restarted and will be completed in Year 3. To compensate for some of the impacted activities, team members completed complementary activities including finalizing linkage maps and new genomes and performing comparative analysis to improve the quality of the available genomes by the Comparative Genomics Team. Obj. 2 Given that the NIR method for organic acids was not predictive and that evaluating organic acids (OA) by HPLC in very large number of samples is not feasible, the Fruit Quality and Statistical Genetic Teams are considering evaluating OA in a mapping population and a subset of the GenStudy set. For Obj. 2c, the original plan was to use the 20 NHB and 20 SHB cultivars from Florida and Oregon (named OR and FL FqStudy Set) to perform shelf life and bruising analysis in addition to the sensory tests. Difficulties due to COVID-19 to get undamaged fruit led to using NC material for shelf life and bruising analysis instead (NC-FqStudy set). Due to COVID-19, transplanting of the cranberry diversity panel at Dr. Vorsa location had to be postponed, delaying phenotyping FCs in this material. New activities were developed to address year 1-2 challenges and AP recommendations. To ensure success of the genetic studies and expand our capacity to detect and validate QTLs across studies, additional materials including four mapping populations and a new cranberry diversity panel were added to the project for genetic studies. Additional work to evaluate fruit cluster and how it affects mechanical harvest was performed by Dr. Li, complementary with VacCAP objectives. Obj. 3 Due to COVID-19 some activities related to Obj. 3a were delayed. However the team anticipated to year 1-2 beginning of activities associated with the development and validation of DNA assay. Obj. 5 Due to COVID-19, some activities were not performed as planned: Workshops that were to be held at the International Vaccinium Symposium (ISHS) were delayed, since the symposium has been postponed to 2024. Due to a logistical delay of the development of the pangenome, the webinar on pangenome was also postponed. Engagement with the public and commodity groups was limited due to shutdown of physical meetings due to COVID-19. To address these challenges, workshops will be held at our next annual meeting in 2022, and we will continue to develop training videos for new methodologies developed by the team. Grower engagement at meetings and conferences will be done in a hybrid model with both virtual and in-person presentations. Outreach to the general public may simply be limited due to the unique situation from Covid-19, but we will continue to advertise, educate, and promote our project where and when feasible. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project participants include 6 post-doctoral associates and 12 technicians, 13 graduate students and undergraduate students fully or partially funded by the project across all the VacCAP team programs. These trainees and technicians are participating in VacCAP activities of phenotyping, genomic analysis, DNA profiling, development of DNA-informed breeding strategies, data management and communication. These personnel are gaining knowledge, experience, and skills in accurate measurement of fruit characteristics, fruit physiology, phenotyping engineering, quantitative genetics, bioinformatics, design and implementation of genetic tests, and breeding program planning and management. In addition, these participants are members of project Teams and undertake targeted training through webinars, workshops and one to one in person training on texture analysis. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Updates about the VacCAP project, and preliminary results were disseminated to the scientific community, including the U.S.-wide community of Vaccinium crop breeders, through 14 peer reviewed publications, 27 posters and oral presentations at regional, national and international conferences (including American Society of Horticultural Science and International Vaccinium Symposium). The information was also disseminated to the broader Vaccinium community (producers, processors and distributors) through 15 oral presentations at commodity group meetings and 8 VacCAP/GDV newsletter articles, and participation to a blueberry podcast series. Two workshops, two webinars and two instructional video were delivered to transfer project outcomes/deliverables. Stakeholders and the more general public were also engaged by feeding project updates and new information related to the project mission through two web sites (VacCAP and GDV) and tweeter account (@VacciniumCAP). To engage the public and students, VacCAP PIs, participated in and/or organized four outreach events targeting K12, middle, high schools, and college students including students representing minorities. Events include blueberry and cranberry field days, science fairs, and short lab training classes. Outreach activities aimed at introducing students to plant science and horticulture, food science, scientific lab experience based on protocol/research. All these activities placed specific attention on the importance on the central role of breeding for blueberry and cranberry productions but also more general crop productions. Lab activities include DNA extraction, PCR, basic chemistry analysis (eg. pH, Brix) and sensory analysis. These events contribute to enhance public understating and interest in learning and careers in plant science, and more specifically plant breeding. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. Establish genomic resources to enable effective association mapping studies in blueberry and cranberry. Finalize sequencing of CB transcriptome and genome annotation for all cranberry genotypes Finalize construction of the pangenome (blueberry-specific, cranberry-specific, and pan-Vaccinium) and identify cultivar-specific genes associated with fruit quality Initiate and finalize compilation of cranberry SNPs catalog Finalize selection of 50,000 probes to use in the testing phase for blueberry and cranberry Complete testing phase for blueberry and initiate genotyping Initiate and complete testing phase for cranberry Objective 2. Discover DNA markers and fruit characteristics that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences in blueberry and cranberry; Complete phenotyping GenStudy, FqStudy sets and analyze year 1 and 2 phenotypic data; Complete cell wall analysis in blueberry post-harvest; Continue testing new protocols and evaluate new traits in GenStudy and FqStudy sets Perform QTL mapping in biparetnal populations Objective 3. Deliver molecular and genetic resources to improve blueberry and cranberry fruit quality traits that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences; Complete phenotyping ValStudy sets and analyze year 1 and 2 phenotypic data; Continue testing protocols for simple DNA assay on a set of existing FC-QTLs; Analyze blueberry DNA assay data (KASP) Test DNA assays for MA and CA developed for cranberry in more diverse populations to evaluate sensitivity and specificity Validate performance of genotypes selected during year 1-2 for advancing them into trial or to use as a parent in new crosses Plant seedlings in nurseries so they are evaluated for their potential contribution to FC Objective 4. Assess the potential socio-economic impact of blueberry and cranberry fruit quality improvements on market demand. Select plant material, and finalize experimental design for second year blueberry sensory panels that includes WTP elicitation. Finalize the analyses of the data collected in year 2 and prepare manuscripts for dissemination of results. Select plant material, and finalize experimental design for evaluating consumer behavior response to fruit tasting pricing using biometric parameters study Finalize the data analyses collected during year 2 to estimate consumers' reactions to "added-sugar" labelling and labelling information in cranberry products Objective 5. Engage U.S. Vaccinium breeders and stakeholder groups to transfer advanced phenomics and genomics tools to build a more coordinated and efficient cultivar development system On-line platforms: Update VacCAP and GDV, and train core and non-core labs on GDV through new training video. Develop a second issue of the GDV newsletter to update national and international partners on new tools and resources available on GDV. Newsletter and other media: release two newsletters; publish articles in trade magazines; maintain VacCAP accounts on social media; Webinars: deliver three webinars; Blueberry volatiles; Pangenome; Firmness and texture in blueberry and cranberry; Workshops: deliver two in-person workshops/trainings focusing on Fruit texture and quality analysis Develop instructional videos that will be posted on the project website and YouTube channel, and distributed to our audience through our newsletter and social media posts. These videos will feature the use of new methodologies for fruit quality phenotyping developed by our team members, as well as evaluation and comparisons of equipment available to stakeholders. In conjunction with the training videos, and when applicable, PDF files with step-by-step protocols will be available on our website. Commodity group meetings: disseminate progress and results to commodity group meetings. Annual meeting: organize the VacCAP annual meeting (possibly in person) Continue to engage and educate the general public about the project outcomes and impacts through outreach activates our website, newsletter, and social media. Project evaluation: continue project evaluation activity to improve communication and effectiveness of extension activities.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Obj. 1. Expanded Genomic resources. A bilberry and 2 cranberry genomes were released, and enabled identification of genes controlling anthocyanin accumulation in these two species. Completed construction of the blueberry pangenome graph, conserved genes were identified and are targeted to design the genotyping platform. Advanced development of the Vaccinium Genotyping platform. Compiled the blueberry SNP catalog that includes >5.8M SNPs, of which 4,675 SNPs represent known QTL loci (e.g. QTL for fruit size, firmness). A target capture technique was chosen for developing the VacCAP genotyping platform and will target 20,000 and 15,000 loci for blueberry and cranberry, respectively. A consortium that include 10 members from core and non-core labs was formed and committed to genotype >7,000 samples in 2022. SNPs located in blueberry core genes and QTLs are being targeted to select 50,000 probes to initiate testing them in 192 diverse blueberry samples. These outcomes are laying foundations to significantly expand application of molecular tools in blueberry and cranberry breeding and genetic programs. Obj. 2. Advanced phenotyping methods. Blueberry: developed the following new phenotyping protocols/methods: 1) a QR barcode system to manage samples across core labs; 2) a Near Infrared Spectrometry methods to predict sugar content; 3) texture with a needle probe to measure skin subcomponents; 4) an image-based method to evaluate blueberry fruit cluster traits; 5) a web application software that determine blueberry bruise; 6) initiated evaluating field/portable tools for firmness analysis. Cranberry: completed testing and comparison of four texture analysis methods/probes (penetration probe, blade, compression and shear). Phenotyped genetic study sets. Blueberry: continued evaluating fruit characteristics (FCs) representing texture, appearance traits (size, scar diameter/tear, wet scar), shelf life indicators (wrinkle/shrivel, mold and leakage) and chemistry (pH, TA, SSC, sugars, volatiles). In Y2 evaluated Northern Highbush (NHB, N=960), and Southern Highbush (SHB, N=980) GenStudy sets, and 2 mapping populations (N=196/364). Except for chemical composition all traits were evaluated at the harvest time and 6-7 week post storage under controlled conditions. Cranberry: evaluated texture, external-internal appearance, fruit weight, yield, % fruit rot, total anthocyanin, Brix and titratable acidity and fruit wax across 5 mapping populations (N= 172/71/211/141/68). Blueberry and cranberry Y1-2 data are being integrated and analyzed. FC genetic studies. Blueberry: identified 18 QTLs for pH, TA, TSS, Weight. 8 QTLs were stable across years. Cranberry: Completed two QTL studies that identified 6 QTLs for fruit weight, 5 QTLs for fruit rot resistance, 1 QTLs for Yield and 2 QTLs for organic acids. FQ Studies. 60 cultivars were harvested in NC and used to conduct the following fruit quality experiments: 1) FQ-shelf life and bruising studies. Evaluated FCs and shelf life indicators at harvest and followed biweekly in post-harvest (3°C) for 6 weeks to evaluate changes in FCs, and fruit chemistry. Bruising was also evaluated at harvest. Fruit chemistry (pH, TA, SSC, soluble sugars, and organic acids) are being evaluated. 2) Cell wall composition. Developed a protocol for cell wall composition and determined cell wall components in pulp and peel of crisp, firm, and soft cultivars at harvest. Compositional analysis is being completed. Data from all these fruit quality experiments are being integrated and used to identify FCs that contribute to fruit quality traits. Completed a study to compare texture probes and correlation with sensory. The study highlighted: a) all the methods discriminated the cultivars; b) the needle probe was able to detect difference in skin thickness observed for the epithelial and hypodermal tissues; c) the compression test was useful associate texture to sensory parameters (springiness, chewiness and resilience) that affect consumer overall liking. Obj. 3. Phenotyped germplasm for FC-QTL validation. Blueberry: phenotyped FCs and shelf life indicators on NHB (N=134), and SHB (N=109) ValStudy sets. Cranberry: phenotyped yield, fruit rot, fruit weight, organic acids content, fruit wax, Brix, total anthocyanins and titratable acidity in five mapping populations. Y1-2 data are being integrated and analyzed. Advanced validation of FC-QTLs. Anchored 52 and 3 existing QTLs for FCs, to the blueberry and cranberry reference genomes, respectively. For each trait, QTLs that overlap across genetic studies are being considered as validated. QTL for citric and malic acids in cranberry were validated and used to design DNA assays for Marker Assisted Selection. Advanced simple DNA assay design. Blueberry: initiated testing of High Resolution Melting and Kompetitive allele specific PCR targeting loci associated with volatiles. Cranberry: 2 SSR and 4 SNP markers were tested in mapping populations and were found to be highly specific (0.81-0.94) and sensitive (0.91-1) for predicting low, moderate and high citric and malic acid content. QTL for other traits are being validated and DNA assays being tested. Leveraged FC phenotypic data for breeding selection. Phenotypic data collected during Y1 enabled blueberry and cranberry breeders (core labs) to advance selections into replicated trials and to make new crosses aiming at combining multiple FQ traits. Obj 4. Performed blueberry willingness to pay (WTP) and sensory surveys., A WTP and consumer preference survey were performed for 20 SHB and 20 NHB varieties. The WTP survey was done in conjunction with sensory test conducted in Florida and Oregon. Responses from a total of 240 panelists were collected. Evaluation of texture and chemistry analysis for these set of material was initiated. Data are being integrate and analyzed to identify salient sensory attributes and fruit characteristics. Performed cranberry consumer survey. Completed a survey to estimate consumers' reactions to "added-sugar" labelling and labelling information in cranberry products (dried cranberries and cranberry juice). Responses from 4,000 cranberry consumers cross U.S. were collected and data are being analyzed. Obj. 5. All activities initiated in Y1 were continued and new activities were developed. Updated On-line platforms: added new data and newly developed information in the Genome Database for Vaccinium (GDV) and VacCAP website (see other products). Products developed and and made available through the online platforms includes: 1) two VacCAP newsletters; 2) the first GDV newsletter with updates on the new resources available on GDV; 3) two instructional videos featuring the use of new methodology to evaluate fruit quality of blueberries. Over 8,000 users/viewers and 148 newsletter subscribers had access to these updated products. Maintained the VacCAP Twitter account that has 260 followers and had 4,750 visits in Y2. Webinars/Forum: delivered a webinar to train users from core and non-core labs on tools available on GDV. Organized two online meetings to finalize the design of the Vaccnium genotyping platform and form the consortium. Workshops: in conjunction with the American Society for Horticultural Science meeting organized a two workshops, focusing on high-throughput phenotyping for fruit chemistry and on texture analysis in berries and led presentations on computational analysis and tools for genetic studies and genomic selection in polyploid crops.Presented at commodity group meetings: provided project updates at 15 grower association meetings in U.S. Annual meeting and Project evaluation: the VacCAP annual meeting was organized on-line on Nov.5, 2021. Survey for gathering input from participants in project webinars, workshops and advisory meeting were deployed. Feedback and recommendations gained from Y1 were integrated into Y2 activities and recommendations gained in Y2 are being considered in planning Y3 activities.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Diaz-Garcia1 L, Garcia-Ortega LF, Rodríguez MG, Delaye L, Iorizzo M and Zalapa J. 2021. Chromosome-level genome assembly of the American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) and its wild relative Vaccinium microcarpum. Frontiers in Plant Science, 12:633310.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Diaz-Garcia L, Covarrubias-Pazaran G, Johnson-Cicalese J, Vorsa N, Zalapa J. 2020. Genotyping-by-sequencing identifies historical breeding stages of the recently domesticated American cranberry. Frontiers in Plant Science, 11:607770. doi:10.3389/fpls.2020.607770.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Diaz JT, Foegeding EA, Stapleton L, Kay C, Ferruzzi MG, Iorrizo M, and Lila MA. 2021. Foaming and sensory characteristics of protein-polyphenol particles in a food matrix. Food Hydrocolloids, 123, 107148.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Fong SK, Kawash J, Wang Y. et al. 2021. A low malic acid trait in cranberry fruit: genetics, molecular mapping, and interaction with a citric acid locus. Tree Genetics & Genomes 17, 4.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2021 Citation: Kawash J, Colt K, Hartwick NT, Abramson BW, Vorsa N, Polashock JJ, Michael TP. 2021. Contrasting a reference cranberry genome to a crop wild relative provides insights into adaptation, domestication, and breeding. bioRxiv 2021.06.27.450096.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Giongo L, Matteo A, Pottorff M, Mainland M, Perkins-Veazie P and Iorizzo M. 2021. Comparative multi-parameters approach to dissect texture subcomponents of blueberry at harvest and postharvest. Postharvest Biology and Technology, Volume 183, 111696.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Jung S, Lee T, Gasic K, Campbell BT, Yu J, Humann J, Ru S, Edge-Garza D, Hough H and Main D. 2021. The Breeding Information Management System (BIM): an online resource for crop breeding. Database, Volume 2021, 2021, baab054.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Jung S, Cheng CH, Buble K, Lee T, Humann J, Yu J, Crabb J, Hough H and Main D. 2021. Tripal MegaSearch: a tool for interactive and customizable query and download of big data. Database,Volume 2021, 2021, baab023.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Karppinen K, Lafferty DJ, Albert NW, Mikkola N, McGhie T, Allan AC, Afzal BM, Häggman H, Espley RV and Jaakola L. 2021. MYBA and MYBPA transcription factors co-regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in blue-coloured berries. New Phytologist.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Mengist MF, Bostan H, Young E, Kay K, Ashrafi H, Gillitt N, Ballington J, Ferruzzi MG, M.A. Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2021. High density linkage map construction and identification of loci regulating fruit quality traits in blueberry. Horticulture Research, 8, 169.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Samkumar A, Jones D, Karppinen K, Dare AP, Sipari N, Espley RV, Martinussen I and Jaakola L. 2021. Red and blue light treatments of ripening bilberry fruits reveal differences in signalling through abscisic acid-regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis. Plant, Cell & Environment, 1⿿19.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Wu C, Deng C, Hilario E, Albert NW, Lafferty D, Grierson ERP, Plunkett BJ, Elborough C, Saei A, Günther CS, Ireland H, Yocca A, Edger PP, Jaakola L, Karppinen K, Grande A, Kylli R, Lehtol VP, Allan AC, Espley RV, Chagné D. 2021. A chromosome?scale assembly of the bilberry genome identifies a complex locus controlling berry anthocyanin composition. Molecular Ecology Resources,
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Wu C, Deng C, Hilario E, Albert N, Lafferty W, Grierson D, E. R. P., Plunkett BJ, Elborough C, Saei A, Günther CS, Ireland H, Yocca A, Edger PP, Jaakola L, Karppinen K, Grande A, Kylli R, Lehtola VP, Allan AC, et al. Chagné D. 2021. A chromosome-scale assembly of the bilberry genome identifies a complex locus controlling berry anthocyanin composition. Molecular Ecology Resources, 00, 1⿿6.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Xueping N, Changying L, Huanyun J and Takeda F. 2021. Three-dimensional photogrammetric reconstruction and deep learning instance segmentation to extract berry fruit harvestability traits. ISPRS Journal of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Yocca, AE, Edger, PP. 2021. Machine learning approaches to identify core and dispensable genes in pangenomes. Plant Genome, e20135.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Ferraro F. 2021.Genome-wide association of fruit-quality traits reveals the genetic basis for blueberry flavor. In: Application and perspectives of genome wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic selection (GS) in Diploid and Polyploid Horticultural Crops Workshop. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Giongo L, Ajelli M, Pottorff M, Coe K, Perkins-Veazie P, Bassil N, Hummer K, Farneti B, Iorizzo M. Comparative study on texture: a key for blueberry quality breeding. August 31, 2021, Proceedings of the XII International Vaccinium Symposium. Virtual format.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Giongo L, Ajelli M, Pottorff M, Perkins-Veazie P and Iorizzo M. 2021. Assessing blueberry and texture traits associated with consumer acceptance and shelf life. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Humann J, Cheng CH, Lee TL, Buble K, Jung S, Yu J, Hough H, Crabb J, Frank M, Scott K, Iorizzo M and Main D. 2021. Using the Genome Database for Vaccinium for genetics, genomics, and breeding research. XII International Vaccinium Symposium, August 30-September 1, 2021, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Virtual.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo M, Mengist MF, Bostan H, Curaba J, Pottorff M. 2021. From genome to genes and DNA markers to improve agronomic performance and quality of fruit and vegetables crops. Genetyka Aplikacyjna Ro?lin XXI, September 22-24, 2021, Warsaw, Poland. Virtual.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Catrin S, Günther, Dare AP, McGhie TK, Deng C, Jaakola L, Lafferty DJ, Plunkett BJ, Grierson ERP, Turner JL, Albert NW and Espley RV. 2021. Spatiotemporal modulation of flavonoid metabolism in Vaccinium berries. International Conference on Polyphenols (ICP), Turku, Finland.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Espley RV, Catrin S, Günther, Dare AP, Albert NW, Lafferty DJ, McGhie T, Deng C, Plunkett BJ, Turner JL, Jones L, Grierson ERP, Schwinn KE, Davies KM, Allan AC, Jaakola L. 2021. The spatio-temporal accumulation and regulation of anthocyanin in Vaccinium. August 31, 2021, XII International Vaccinium Symposium, Dalhousie, Canada.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo M., M.A. Lila, P. Perkins-Veazie, M. Pottorff, C. Finn, N. Vorsa, P. Edger, N. Bassil, P. Munoz, J. Zalapa, K.R. Gallardo, A. Atucha, D. Main, L. Giongo, C. Li, J. Polashock, C. Sims, E. Canales, L. M. Coe, D. Chagne, R. Espley and L. De Vetter. 2021. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Proceedings of the XII International Vaccinium Symposium. August 30-September 1, 2021, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Virtual.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Gasic K, Humann J, Yu J, Hough H and Main D. 2021. An update on the Breeding Information Management System (BIMS). Proceedings of the ASHS Annual Conference; Aug 5-9, 2021; Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Main D, Jung S, Lee T, Cheng CH, Gasic K, Humann J, Yu J, Hough H, Iorizzo M. 2021. Using the GDV Breeding Information Management System. Proceedings of the International Vaccinium Symposium, August 30-September 1, 2021, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Mengist MF, Burtch H, Debelo H, Pottorff M, Bostan H, Nunn C, Corbin S, Kay CD, Bassil N, Hummer K, Lila MA, Ferruzzi MG, Iorizzo M. 2021. Diversity of phenolic bioaccessibility in blueberry germplasm: towards the development of a genetic framework to improve the efficiency of bioactive delivery. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Mengist MF, Bostan H, Kay K, Gillitt N, Ashrafi H, Ferruzzi MG, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. High density linkage map construction and identification of loci regulating fruit quality traits in blueberry. 2021. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Munoz P. 2021. Operational application of genomic selection in tetraploid blueberry. In: Application and perspectives of genome wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic selection (GS) in Diploid and Polyploid Horticultural Crops Workshop. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P, Ma G, Pottorff M, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2021. New tools for rapid fruit quality analysis in blueberry. August 31, 2021, Proceedings of the XII International Vaccinium Symposium. Virtual format.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P, Ma G, Pottorff M, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2021. New tools for rapid fruit quality analysis in blueberry. Acta Horticulturae.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P. 2021. Faster Methods for Postharvest Compositional Analysis. HortScience 56.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P. 2021. Introduction and overview of texture and instruments. HortScience 56.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Phillips M, Diaz-Garcia L, Grygleski E, Giongo L, Atucha A, Iorizzo M and Zalapa J. 2021. Cranberry challenges in distinguishing soft and firm berries. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Samkumar A, Karppinen K, Martinussen I, Espley R, Jaakola L. 2021. Light quality from supplemental light-emitting diodes modulates biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in ripening bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) fruit. August 30, 2021, XII International Vaccinium Symposium, Dalhousie, Canada. Virtual format.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Trandel MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M and Johanningsmeier S. 2021. Method optimization and cell wall analysis for peel and pulp of blueberry cultivars. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Trandel MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M and Johanningsmeier S. 2021. Exploring the plant cell wall in blueberry varieties of different texture. Acta Horticulturae.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Trandel MA, Perkins-Veazie P, Iorizzo M and Johanningsmeier S. 2021. Optimization of blueberry cell wall extraction from grinding through hydrolysis. HortScience, 56.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Yalcin O, Finn C, Mackey T, Pottorff M, Iorizzo M, Hardigan M, Luby C, Bassil NV. 2021. Towards QTL analysis of phenological and fruit quality traits in a tetraploid highbush blueberry population. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, Colorado.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Humann J and Main M. Genome Database for Vaccinium (https://vacciniumcap.org) XII International Vaccinium Symposium, August 30-September 1, 2021, Virtual. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Mengist M.F., H. Bostan, K. Kay, N. Gillitt, H. Ashrafi, M.G. Ferruzzi, M.A. Lila and M. Iorizzo. 2021. High density linkage map construction and identification of loci regulating fruit quality traits in blueberry. XII International Vaccinium Symposium, August 30-September 1, 2021, Virtual. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Pottorff M, Zielinski K, Mengist M, Honigs D, Grace M, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2021. A high-throughput phenotyping method using near infrared spectroscopy to measure anthocyanin content in blueberry. XII International Vaccinium Symposium, August 30-September 1, 2021, Virtual. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Yalcin O, Finn C, Mackey T, Pottorff M, Iorizzo M, Hardigan M, Luby C, Bassil NV. 2021. Towards QTL analysis of phenological and fruit quality traits in a tetraploid highbush blueberry population. ASHS Annual Conference, August 5-9, 2021, Denver, CO, USA. Poster
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, and Zalapa J. 2021. Cranberry School. Wisconsin Dells, WI. January 28, 2021. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: DeVetter, L. 2021. Washington Small Fruit Conference. Lynden, WA. December 1, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: : DeVetter L, Bassil N, Luby C. 2021. VacCAP: Improving Fruit Quality. Blueberry Field Day. Oregon State University⿿s North Willamette Research & Extension Center in Canby, Oregon. July 15, 2021. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo, M. VacCAP project update. 2021. North Carolina Blueberry Council Annual Open House. January 13, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo M. 2021. Leveraging Genetic and Genomic Resources to Enable Development of Blueberry and Cranberry Cultivars with Improved Fruit Quality Attributes. NABC/USHBC Spring meeting. March 18, 2021. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Muñoz, P. 2021. Spring Florida Blueberry Growers Association. March 8, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Perkins-Veazie P. 2021. Postharvest of Berries. Berry Grower Meeting, Virginia State University. February 18, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Polaschock, J. 2021. American Cranberry Grower Association Winter meeting, New Jersey. January 23, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Polaschock, J. 2021. Blueberry Open House New Jersey. March 9, 2021. Virtual format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Polaschock, J. 2021. Cranberry Summer Field day. August 19, 2021. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Sandler, H. 2021. University of Massachusetts Cranberry Station Annual Extension and Research Update Meeting. January 26, 2021. Virtual Format. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. 2020. VacCAP project discussion. Wisconsin Cranberry Research Roundtable. Madison, WI. November 9, 2020. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Iorizzo M. 2021. Blueberry research updates at the Piedmont Research Field Station. August 17, 2021. Presentations for growers or other industry stakeholders
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L, Gallardo K and Canales E. 2021. Buying Better Berries: What Does Fruit Quality Mean to Consumers? VacCAP Newsletter Issue 2, May 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Zalapa J. 2021. Piecing Together the Cranberry Genome Puzzle. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 2, May 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L, Bocock Band Serres R. 2021. Fruit Quality: An Industry Perspective. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 2, May 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A Russo J, DeVetter L, Sims C, Gallardo K and Canales E. 2021. Sensory Tasting Survey Helps Connect Fruit Quality Traits and Consumer Preferences in Blueberry. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 3, August 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Vorsa N. 2021. Fighting Fruit Rot: Dr. Nicholi Vorsa⿿s Breeding Program Focuses on Developing Resistant Cranberry Cultivars. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 3, August 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Humann J and Main D. 2021. Genome Database for Vaccinium Newsletter, Issue 1, September 2021.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Atucha A, Russo J, DeVetter L and Li C. 2021. New Imaging Methods Help Researchers Find Blueberry Cultivars Resistant to Bruising. VacCAP Newsletter Issue 3, August 2021.


Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20

Outputs
Target Audience:Blueberry and cranberry breeders; post-harvest physiologists, food scientists, germplasm collection curators, molecular geneticists, and other allied scientists of these crops; nurseries, producers, processors, marketers, and marketing organizations of Vaccinium crops; and consumers of these crops. Changes/Problems: Due to operational restrictions (total or partial lockdown) employed by funded institutions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infections and delay of funding release from the USDA-NIFA the following activities were not performed as planned: sequencing of the 36 blueberry and cranberry samples was delayed resulting in a delay in downstream analysis (Obj. 1); Southern Highbush GenStudy set was not harvested and phenotyped (Obj. 2); the cranberry diversity panel could not be transplanted in the field (Obj.2); one newsletter could not be developed; workshops that were to be held at the Vaccinium International Symposium could not be organized (symposium was postponed to 2021); the first annual meeting was organized on-line. Furthermore, engagement with the public and commodity groups was limited due to shutdown of physical meetings due to COVID-19. To compensate for some of these delayed and cancelled activities, some data analysis work from complementary projects was completed (eg. completed additional chromosome scale genome assemblies and performed comparative analysis, completed linkage maps and QTL mapping for SNPs catalog, identified possible genes and SNPs from existing QTLs to target for DNA assay design) and are being used to complement VacCAP planned activities. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Project participants include 5 post-doctoral associates and 15 technicians, 13 graduate students and undergraduate students fully or partially funded by the project across all the VacCAP team programs. These trainees and technicians are participating in VacCAP activities of phenotyping, genomic analysis, DNA profiling, development of DNA-informed breeding strategies, data management and communication. These personnel are gaining knowledge, experience, and skills in accurate measurement of fruit characteristics, fruit physiology, phenotyping engineering, quantitative genetics, bioinformatics, design and implementation of genetic tests, and breeding program planning and management. In addition, these participants are members of project Teams and undertake targeted training such as a workshop and a one to one in person training on texture analysis. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Introduction about the VacCAP project, and preliminary results were disseminated to the scientific community, including the U.S.-wide community of Vaccinium crop breeders, through 8 peer reviewed publications, 11poster and oral presentations at regional, national and international conferences (including Plant and Animal Genome Conferences). The information was also disseminated to the broader Vaccinium community (producers, processors and distributors) through 14 oral presentations at commodity group meetings, 2 article in trade magazines, 7 news articles, and the VacCAP newsletter. To engage the public and students, VacCAP PIs, participated in and/or organized eight outreach events targeting K12, middle, high schools, and college students including students representing minorities. Events include blueberry and cranberry field trips, science fairs, and short lab training classes. Outreach activities aimed at introducing students to plant science and horticulture, food science, scientific lab experience based on protocol/research. All these activities placed specific attention on the importance on the central role of breeding for blueberry and cranberry productions but also more general crop productions. Lab activities include DNA extraction, PCR, basic chemistry analysis (eg. pH, Brix) and sensory analysis. These events attract thousands of attendees and contribute to enhance public understating and interest in learning and careers in plant science, and more specifically plant breeding. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. Establish genomic resources to enable effective association mapping studies in blueberry and cranberry. Finalize genome assembly and annotation for all 36 genotypes and construct the pangenome (blueberry specific, cranberry specific, and pan-Vaccinium); Identify cultivar-specific genes associated with fruit quality; Develop blueberry haplotype map; Complete SNP catalog and phase SNPs; Prepare DNA from 188 blueberry and 100 cranberry samples to genotype for the testing phase; Organize the genotyping forum and form the Vaccinium Genotyping Consortium; Finalize choice of genotyping platform and select SNPs for the testing phase; Objective 2. Discover DNA markers and fruit characteristics that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences in blueberry and cranberry; Phenotype FCs and shelf-life indicators from the blueberry and cranberry GenStudy sets; Complete analysis of blueberry year 1 and cranberry year 1-2 data; Finalize material collection, begin DNA extraction from GenStudy sets; Begin genotyping GenStudy set; Perform FQ analysis: sensory, shelf-life and bruising; Objective 3. Deliver molecular and genetic resources to improve blueberry and cranberry fruit quality traits that maximize industry profitability and match consumer preferences; Phenotype blueberry and cranberry ValStudy Sets; Prepare material, and plan genotyping needs for ValStudy sets; Finalize and test protocol for simple DNA assay on a set of existing FC-QTLs (VOC); Develop a list of genotypes harboring superior FCs based on year 1 phenotypic data; Make crosses and store seeds; Objective 4. Assess the potential socio-economic impact of blueberry and cranberry fruit quality improvements on market demand. Finalize blueberry willingness to pay (WTP) questionnaire and experimental design. Implement WTP survey in conjunction with sensory analysis panel. Begin analysis of WTP data; Draft questionnaire and experimental design to study consumer behavior response to fruit tasting pricing using biometric parameter. Finalize list of plant materials to be used in study; Distribute cranberry survey to panel of U.S. consumers via Qualtrics. Collect and analyze survey data; Objective 5. Engage U.S. Vaccinium breeders and stakeholder groups to transfer advanced phenomics and genomics tools to build a more coordinated and efficient cultivar development system On-line platforms: Train core and non-core labs on GDV. Update VacCAP and GDV Distribute updates to national and international partners; Newsletter and other media: release two newsletters; publish articles in trade magazines; maintain VacCAP accounts on social media; Webinars: deliver two webinars; phenotyping fruit texture and pangenome; Workshops: deliver two workshops; fruit quality at ASHS and training core labs on use of data management systems; Commodity group meetings: disseminate progress and results to commodity group meetings. Annual meeting: organize the VacCAP annual meeting in conjunction with the Vaccinium International Symposium (Halifax, Canada, August 28-Sept 3) Project evaluation: continue project evaluation activity to improve communication and effectiveness of extension activities.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Project Objectives and Annual Progress Obj.1. To develop the Vaccinium pangenome the genomes of 36 blueberry and cranberry cultivars were sequenced and the assembly for fifteen genotypes was completed. Three chromosome scale genome assemblies representing blueberry wild diploid species and one cranberry cultivar were completed, and three new linkage maps were constructed. These resources are used to improve the quality of the available blueberry and cranberry genome assemblies, and for genome-wide analyses to identify regions of the genome that contain introgression from related Vaccinium species used by various breeding programs. The pangenome will be used to develop a high-throughput genotyping platform (HTGP) and will limit ascertainment bias in the SNP selection. Multiple activities were initiated to develop the Vaccinium HTGP. SNP markers (47,025) from blueberry and cranberry linkage maps and QTL studies and 667 DNA and RNA sequence sets of Vaccinium genotypes were collected to establish a catalog of Vaccinium SNPs to detect and validate new SNPs. Plant material was collected from blueberry (188) and cranberry (100) genotypes to use for testing the Vaccinium genotyping platform. Engaged 18 core and non-core labs (stakeholders) to evaluate the technical needs for a Vaccinium HTGP. Feedbacks highlighted the following platform needs: cost effective; able to estimate allele dosage; limit ascertainment bias; serve multiple applications, in particular GWAS; and be easy to use via limiting work needed for scoring the SNPs. Overall the outcomes of these activities lay the foundation to build the resources and the network needed to expand application of molecular tools in blueberry and cranberry breeding and genetic programs. Obj.2. To perform marker traits association studies for fruit characteristics (FCs) and shelf-life indicators, new phenotyping methods/protocols were tested and implemented to phenotype the blueberry and cranberry Genetic Study sets. Blueberry: Developed a data collection system to simultaneously evaluate and collect phenotypic data for 20 FCs representing texture and appearance, shelf life indicators (wrinkle, mold, and leakage) and to calculate storage performance (eg. FCs storage indexes). Fruits from the Northern Highbush (NHB) GenStudy set (N=973) and one mapping population (DxJ, N=189) were phenotyped at harvest and six weeks post-harvest (stored at 4?). Preliminary results indicates a wide range of variation for most of the traits. Fruits for non-volatile chemistry analysis are being processed by the Phenotyping team. To identify FCs that contribute to fruit quality traits, a new subset of texture parameters and indexes were tested using three methods (penetration, compression and puncture). The new parameters are being correlated with sensory analysis, shelf-life indicators and with a handy fruit texture analysis device. Preliminary analysis indicates that the different methods can discriminate genotypes, and in some case the different tissue layers. Also method for chemical compositional analysis are being tested, and along with the texture analysis will be used to establish a link between DNA markers associated with FCs and fruit quality attributes. Cranberry: three methods (puncture, compression, and shearing) for texture analysis were evaluated. The compression method was the most powerful to discriminate cultivars and was chosen for downstream analysis. Texture, external appearance, internal appearance, non-volatile chemical composition was phenotyped on 3 mapping populations (MP1, N= 171, MP2, N=71, MP3, N=211) and resistance to fruit rot evaluated in MP3. Preliminary analysis indicates a wide range of variation for most of the traits. The use of accurate and objective phenotypic methods to evaluate FCs in blueberry and cranberry, represent a key step to empower the following up marker traits association studies. Obj. 3. To validate existing and/or new FCs QTLs, a subset of the Validation Study set (161 NHB blueberry genotypes) was phenotyped for FCs, shelf-life indicators and storage performance and are being processed for non-volatile chemistry analysis. Cranberry advanced selections bred for fruit rot resistance (FRR) were also evaluated. Phenotypic data obtained from the ValStudy and GenStudy sets are also being analyzed to identify parents carrying desirable FCs and to use them in new crosses. To develop simple DNA assay targeting FCs, data from previous blueberry and cranberry QTL studies were used to identify target candidate genes. NBS-LLR resistance genes and genes involved in the synthesis of volatile (VOC) metabolites, and anthocyanin (ANT) were identified in the cranberry and blueberry genomes. A genetic study for citric and malic acids (CITA) in cranberry was completed and a multi-allelic Mendelian locus CITA identified. The genomic location of existing FRR, ANT, CITA and VOC QTLs are used to identify their overlap with candidate genes. Also DNA extraction and genotyping high-throughput assays for blueberry were started. This activity establishes a foundation to validate existing and new FC QTLs, and develop cost-effective DNA assay. DNA assay for FCs and new crosses made based on molecular and phenotypic data will provide a foundational work to accelerate breeding for fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry breeding programs. Obj. 4. Finalized the development of a survey to elicit preferences and willingness to pay for different levels of sugar content in dried cranberry and cranberry juice. The survey will also collect information on consumers' perceptions of food science and technology, and the tradeoffs to accept novel breeding technologies when the benefit is to receive a healthier (less sugar) product. Cranberry industry stakeholders actively participated on designing the survey and distribution of the survey is being planned. The outcomes of this study will guide cranberry breeders and the processing/distribution industry in formulating targeted marketing strategies for the promotion of cranberry products. Obj. 5. All activities aiming at engaging the stakeholders were initiated during year 1. On-line platforms: the VacCAP web site was released. The Genome Database for Vaccinium was updated, by adding new genetic and genomic data (see other products) and upgraded to the Tripal 3 database platform. Created a standard Blueberry Trait Ontology in collaboration with USDA ARS scientists for use in both the Breeding Insight and BIMS platforms. Newsletters and other media: developed and released the first issue of the VacCAP newsletter. Published two articles in trade magazines (see products) to introduce the objectives of the VacCAP project. Created and maintained a VacCAP Twitter account (58 follower) and established a YouTube channel with one video currently uploaded (19 views). Webinars: delivered a webinar titled to introduce the Breeding Information System Management (BIMS) and the Field Book App. The webinar resulted in 11 new BIMS user accounts being created. Workshops: delivered three workshops with cranberry processors to introduce high throughput FCs analysis including texture. Industry representatives expressed interest in implementing the new technologies in their processing lines. Commodity group meetings: Delivered 14 presentations at grower association meetings across nine US states and Canada to introduce the VacCAP project. Annual meeting: the first VacCAP annual meeting with members of the Advisory Panel was organized on-line on Feb. 25, 2020. Panel recommendations were discussed at the annual project meeting, and appropriate adjustments made to project activities. Project evaluation: developed an online survey portal for gathering input from participants in project webinars, workshops and meetings. Feedback and recommendations gained from year one activities are being considered in planning future activities.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Ni, X., Li, C., Jiang, H., & Takeda, F. (2020). Deep learning image segmentation and extraction of blueberry fruit traits associated with harvestability and yield. Horticulture Research, 7(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41438-020-0323-3
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Mengist MF, Grace MH, Xiong J, Kay CD, Bassil N, Hummer K, Ferruzzi MG, Lila MA and Iorizzo M. 2020. Diversity in metabolites and fruit quality traits in blueberry enables ploidy and species differentiation and establishes a strategy for future genetic studies. Frontier in Plant Science, 11:370. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.00370.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Farneti B, Emanuelli F, Giongo L, Toivonen P, Iorizzo M, Folta KM and Finn CE. 2020. Editorial: Interdisciplinary approaches to improve quality of soft fruit berries. Frontiers in Plant Science, section Crop and Product Physiology, 11:592222. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.592222
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Diaz-Garcia L, Rodriguez-Bonilla L, Phillips M, Lopez-Hernandez A, Grygleski E, Atucha A and Zalapa J. 2019. Comprehensive analysis of the internal structure and firmness in American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon L.) fruit. PlosOne, 14(9): e0222451. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0222451.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kay Fong S, Kawash J, Wang Y, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polaschock J and Vorsa N. 2020. A low citric trait in cranberry: genetic and molecular mapping of a locus impacting fruit acidity. Tree Genetics & Genomes, 16:42. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11295-020-01432-4.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kay Fong S, Kawash J, Wang Y, Johnson-Cicalese J, Polaschock J and N. Vorsa (2020). A low malic acid trait in cranberry fruit: genetics, molecular mapping and interaction with a citric acid locus. Tree Genetics & Genomes.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: G�nther CS, Dare AP, McGhie TK, Deng C, Lafferty DJ, Plunkett BJ, Grierson ERP, Turner J L, Jaakola L, Albert NW and Espley RV. 2020. Spatiotemporal modulation of flavonoid metabolism in blueberries. Frontiers in Plant Science, 11.545. https://doi:10.3389/fpls.2020.00545
  • Type: Book Chapters Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Vorsa N. and J. Zalapa. 2019. Domestication, Genetics, and Genomics of the American Cranberry. Plant Breeding Reviews, Volume 43:279-310
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Eddy D. Research Team Seeks to Boost Berry Quality, Jan. 3, 2019. Growing Produce magazine https://www.growingproduce.com/fruits/berries/research-team-seeks-to-boost-berry-quality
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Giongo L. and Iorizzo M. Sinergie di ricerca per lindustria di mirtillo gigante e cranberry. Rivista di Frutticoltura e Ortofrutticoltura. Vol. 2 (2020), 2-4
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Ni, X., Li, C., Jiang, H. Blueberry harvestability trait extraction from 2D images and 3D point clouds based on deep learning and photogrammetric reconstruction. Paper Number: 2001338. ASABE Annual International Meeting. Omaha, Nebraska. July 12-15, 2020.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Iorizzo M., Lila M.A., Perkins-Veazie P., Pottorff M., Finn C, Vorsa N., Edger P., Bassil N., Munoz P., Zalapa J., Gallardo K.R., Atucha A., Main D., Giongo L., Li C., Polashock J., Sims C., Canales E., DeVetter L., Chagne D., Espley R., Coe M. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. XXVII Plant & Animal Genome, January 11-15, 2020, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Mengist M.F., Grace H.M., Xiong J., Kay. D.C, Bassil N., Hummer K., Ferruzzi M., Lila M.A., M. Iorizzo. Diversity in metabolites and fruit quality traits in blueberry enables ploidy and species differentiation and establishes a strategy for bioactive genetic studies. XXVII Plant & Animal Genome, January 11-15, 2020, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2019 Citation: M. Iorizzo, M.A. Lila, P. Perkins-Veazie, M. Pottorff, C. Finn, N. Vorsa, P. Edger, N. Bassil, P. Munoz, J. Zalapa, K.R. Gallardo, A. Atucha, D. Main, L. Giongo, C. Li, J. Polashock, C. Sims, E. Canales, L. DeVetter, D. Chagne, R. Espley, M. Coe. VacciniumCAP, a community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry. XII International Vaccinium Symposium.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2019 Citation: M. Pottorff, R. Kock, L. Giongo, M. Fentie, P. Munoz, T. Mackey, N. Bassil, P. Perkins-Veazie, M. Iorizzo. An automated and integrated phenotyping method to capture fruit texture characteristics, stem scar diameter and fruit weight in blueberry. XII International Vaccinium Symposium.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Deng C, G�nther CS, Lafferty D, Dare AP, McGhie TK, Grierson E, Albert NW, Espley RV (2020) Deciphering the blue colour in blueberries XXVII Plant & Animal Genome, January 10th 11-15, 2020, San Diego, California, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Plunkett BJ, Lafferty D, Dare AP, Albert NW, G�nther CS, McGhie TK, Turner JL, Jones L, Grierson E, Schwinn KE, Davies KM, Allan AC, Jaakola L, Espley RV (2019) Filling the Void  boosting the nutritional value of blueberry. 10th International Workshop on Anthocyanins, September 9-11, 2020, Trento, Italy.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Plunkett BJ, Lafferty D, Dare AP, Albert NW, G�nther CS, McGhie TK, Turner JL, Jones L, Grierson E, Schwinn KE, Davies KM, Allan AC, Jaakola L, Espley RV (2019) Filling the Void  boosting the nutritional value of blueberry. TropAg, November 10-13, Brisbane, Australia.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Giongo Lara Blueberry and raspberry breeding in a view of higher fruit quality at harvest and post-harvest. 10/11/2019 Tanger (Morocco)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2019 Citation: Giongo L, Ajelli M, Pottorff M, Perkins-veazie P, Bassil N, Hummer K, Farneti B, Iorizzo M. Comparative study on texture: a key trait for blueberry fruit quality breeding. XII International Vaccinium Symposium
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Iorizzo M. VacCAP: A community-based project to develop advanced genetic tools to improve fruit quality in blueberry and cranberry. Online talk, organized by Peruvian Ministry of Agriculture and National Institute of Agricultural Innovation. June 25, 2020.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Cline W. and M. Iorizzo. VacCAP Project: A New Nationwide Project to Advance Breeding in Vaccinium Species. North Carolina Blueberry Council  54th Annual Open House and Trade Show, January 14-15, 2020, Fayetteville, NC, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. Genetic and trait research past, present, and future. BC Cranberry Marketing Commission & BC Cranberry Growers Association Meeting. Invited research presentation. Invited by Jeff Hamilton and Todd May. Richmond, Vancouver, Canada. February 17-19, 2020.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. Fruit Texture and quality measures. BC Cranberry Marketing Commission & BC Cranberry Growers Association Meeting. Invited research presentation. Richmond, Vancouver, Canada. February 17-19, 2020.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. Genetics, genomics, and breeding in Cranberry. UMass and Cranberry Growers Association Meeting. Invited research presentation. Wareham, MA. January 30, 2020.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. Wisconsin Cranberry School sponsored by the University of Wisconsin-Extension and the Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association. Developing techniques to measure cranberry firmness. Wisconsin Dells, WI. January 23, 2020.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2019 Citation: Zalapa J. Fruit quality measures. Wisconsin Cranberry Research Roundtable. Madison, WI. November 7, 2019.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Phillips M., L. Diaz-Garcia, E. Grygleski, A. Atucha, M. Iorizzo, J. Zalapa. 2020. Cranberry fruit texture and quality measures. WI Cranberry School Proceedings Vol 28.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: DeVetter, LW. VacCAP: Leveraging Genetic and Genomic Resources to Enable Development of Blueberry and Cranberry Cultivars with Improved Fruit Quality Attributes. Oregon Cranberry School. Jan. 30, 2020, Bandon, OR, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2019 Citation: Finn, C. Blueberry Breeding Program Update and VacCAP. Washington Small Fruit Conference. Dec. 5, 2019, Lynden, WA, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zalapa J. and A. Atucha. Introducing VacCAP Project. Wisconsin State Growers Association Cranberry School, January 23, 2020, Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Polashock, J. VacCAP Project: A New Nationwide Project to Advance Breeding in Vaccinium Species. Annual Meeting of the American Cranberry Growers Association, January 23, 2020, Columbus, NJ, USA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: R. Allen. VacCAP: Leveraging genetic and genomic resources to enable development of blueberry and cranberry cultivars with improved fruit quality attributes. Alma Blueberry Update January 8, 2020, Alma, GA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2019 Citation: D. Main. Using crop databases and big-data to enable superior cultivar development. WA SMALL FRUIT CONFERENCE & LYNDEN AG SHOW, December 4-6, 2019, Lynden, WA.
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: E. Canales. Market Planning. Mississippi Blueberry Education Workshop. January 23, 2020, Hattiesburg, MS.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: UW scientists part of $12.8M effort to improve cranberries and blueberries: Wisconsin State Farmer, February 18, 2020. https://www.wisfarmer.com/story/news/2020/02/18/uw-scientists-part-effort-improve-cranberries-and-blueberries/4798444002/
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: UW researchers receive grant pioneer research on cranberry genomes: Badger Herald, March 10, 2020. https://badgerherald.com/news/2020/03/10/uw-researchers-receive-grant-pioneer-research-on-cranberry-genomes/
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Wisconsin-based researchers work to breed better cranberries. SprectrumNews, February 24, 2020. https://spectrumnews1.com/wi/madison/news/2020/02/25/wisconsin-based-researchers-work-to-breed-better-cranberries
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: Building a Better Berry: A Cranberry Q&A With Dr. Juan Zalapa: VacCap Newsletter, August 25, 2020. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/buildingabetterberry
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: WSU scientists team up to improve blueberries, cranberries. WSU Insider, Feb. 7, 2020. https://news.wsu.edu/2020/02/07/wsu-scientists-team-12-8-million-effort-improve-blueberries-cranberries/
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: DeVetter, L.W. Dr. Chad Finn  Forever Inspiring the Berry Breeding Community. VacCAP Newsletter, Aug. 25, 2020. https://www.vacciniumcap.org/node/51
  • Type: Other Status: Other Year Published: 2020 Citation: D. Chagne. The importance of the humble blueberry. Genomics Aotearoa, Ferbruary 26, 2020. https://sciblogs.co.nz/genomics-aotearoa/2020/02/26/the-importance-of-the-humble-blueberry/