Solanaceae is the diverse plant family that includes peppers, eggplant, potato, and tomato. This video focuses on potato—Solanum tuberosum—and its role in global food security. Plant geneticist Sahar Toulabi is working to better understand potato’s nutritional properties to breed more nourishing crops. Researcher Dr. Amy Charkowski is studying potato’s response to pathogens to improve disease resistance. By conserving the genetic diversity found in potatoes and their wild relatives, scientists and breeders have the tools they need to address consumer needs and improve crops to withstand problems caused by pests, disease, and harsh environmental conditions.
This video was produced by Colorado State University’s Center for Science Communication, in conjunction with Colorado State University’s Department of Soil and Crop Sciences and the United States Department of Agriculture. Funding was provided by USDA-NIFA-Higher Education Challenge Grant (2020-70003-303930), with additional support from USDA-ARS National Laboratory for Genetic Resources Preservation, CSU Agricultural Research, Development and Education Center, and Colorado State University. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, lender.
![](https://s2.save4k.ru/pic/YFVdwFyHp0s/maxresdefault.jpg)