In the last decade, the application of marker-assisted breeding (MAB) has become a
cost effective technology for crop improvement programs. However, since the
application of the technology requires significant investments to generate genomic
resources and extensive training, MAB is available primarily for high-value crops (eg.
corn, rice, soybean), and the maximum value breeding traits such as yield and
resistance/tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Resources to perform MAB are still
limited for lower value crops such as specialty crops (largely fruits and vegetables) and
traits such as fruit quality, in particular health-promoting compounds (bioactives), which
can add nutritional and economic value to the final product.

To contribute to closing this gap, Dr. Iorizzo’s program focuses on establishing genomic resources to identify genes
and DNA markers associated with the production of health related photoactive in fruits and vegetables, in addition to
other fruit quality traits. At NCSU, Dr. Iorizzo’s research focused on carrot, blueberry, banana, pineapple, spinach and
cranberry. His team has established high quality reference genomes for most of these crops. These resources are
used to identify genes that control the accumulation of health related phytoactive compounds (e.g. anthocyanin) and
factors affecting their bioaccessibilty or stability as a natural product (e.g. colorants). He is the director of a
multidisciplinary and multistate project that focuses on the development of advanced molecular resources for
blueberry and cranberry to study fruit quality attributes. Outcomes of his research multiple projects are contributing to
expand resources for MAB to efficiently select fruits and vegetables with improved traits including nutritional value.