As is well known, a gametophytic self-incompatibility system (GSI) determines fertility in sweet cherry varieties and prevents pollination with self and genetically related pollen. This mechanism is controlled by a multiallelic S locus that encodes two genes involved in fertilization: the allele-specific ribonuclease S (S RNase) expressed in the female style and the S-specific F-box protein (SFB) in the male pollen.
Figure 1. Graphical representation of incompatibility mechanisms in sweet cherry.
The knowledge of the S genotype of sweet cherries is very important for cherry growers. In fact, to achieve good pollination and fruit set, in addition to an adequate presence of pollinators and the correct choice of varieties with overlapping bloom, perfect genetic compatibility between the main variety and its pollinator must be ensured.
Over the years, molecular markers have been developed to distinguish S alleles in sweet cherries. In a recent update by Schuster and Schröpfer of the JKI - Julius Kühn-Institut (Germany), a total of 72 incompatibility groups in 1700 sweet cherry cultivars were listed.
Twenty-six sweet cherry cultivars have a unique combination of S alleles, have been described as universal donors, and were categorized into incompatibility group 0. Additionally, there are 91 sweet cherry genotypes that are self-compatible (SC) or self-fertile (SF) and belong to group SC.
So far, a total of 26 different S alleles have been described in cultivated sweet cherries (for further details: https://cherrytimes.it/news/una-panoramica-sugli-s-alleli-delle-ciliegie-dolci-coltivate).
Building on the work of the German research group, Jesús Alonso Sánchez, a researcher at the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), has created a kind of easily searchable online database.
To access the file click here
Cherry Times editorial staff
Image source: SL Fruit Service; Primrose
29 May 2024
According to Alper Kerim, owner of Demir Fresh Fruits, the focus this year will be on the European market: ‘We are able to send large volumes to Europe and transit times are very good for cherries. However, Asian countries remain the biggest buyers.’
18 Nov 2024
Obtained at the Forlì site of the Forlì Research Centre for Olive, Fruit and Citrus Fruit Growing, they were selected as CREA C1 (Isired) and CREA C2 (Giored) as part of a genetic improvement programme aimed at the lowland environments of the Romagna area.
26 Mar 2026
A study in Puglia explores how grafting affects Prunus mahaleb metabolism, revealing differences in sugars, acids, and bioactive compounds between grafted and ungrafted plants, with key implications for fruit quality, nutraceutical value, and rootstock use.
26 Mar 2026
USDA proposes new marketing rules for Washington sweet cherries: higher minimum size requirements, exceptions for Rainier and Royal Anne, updated packaging categories, and more aligned standards to support grower profitability and access to crop insurance.
