Developmental Physiology Dr. Pascal Hunziker

Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as mashua, is a tuberous plant native to the Andean region of South America. It is a member of the Tropaeolaceae family and is cultivated primarily for its edible tubers, which serve as an important food source in regions of Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. This plant thrives in high-altitude environments, typically between 2,500 and 4,000 meters above sea level. The tubers of T. tuberosum are highly nutritious, containing carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins. They also exhibit a unique pungent flavor due to the presence of glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds that contribute to their distinctive taste and potential medicinal properties. Studies suggest that these compounds possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making T. tuberosum of interest in the field of ethnobotany and pharmacology. The plant produces vibrant yellow or orange flowers, which contribute to its ornamental appeal, while its vigorous climbing growth habit allows it to be intercropped with maize and other staple crops. Due to its resilience and nutritional value, T. tuberosum is gaining interest as a potential crop for sustainable agriculture worldwide.

To unlock the full potential of T. tuberosum as a globally viable crop, my research integrates genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics to study gene function and identify key regulators of daylength sensitivity, flavor, and tuber development. A particular focus is on elucidating the biosynthetic pathway of aromatic glucosinolates, which contribute to the tuber’s distinctive flavor profile. By establishing in vitro culture and transformation protocols, I aim to enable transgene-free modifications that enhance the crop’s adaptability and nutritional value. Beyond domestication, my work also explores the evolutionary history and genetic diversity of T. tuberosum, providing insights into how selection has shaped key agronomic traits. Understanding these processes is essential for the conservation of genetic resources and the expansion of crop diversity, ensuring the resilience of future food systems in a changing climate.

Looking ahead, this project serves as a blueprint for next-generation crop domestication, applying evolutionary and developmental biology to accelerate the improvement of underutilized species. By extending this approach to other orphan crops, I aim to establish a framework for developing resilient, high-value food sources. Additionally, T. tuberosum presents an opportunity to investigate fundamental questions in plant biology, such as the genetic control of climbing growth, spurred flower morphology, and tuber formation. These insights will not only advance crop science but also deepen our understanding of plant evolution and adaptation.