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Wild Tomatoes in Galápagos Exhibit Remarkable Reverse Evolution

6/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Wild tomatoes on the Galápagos Islands are fascinatingly reverting to their ancient roots, as researchers from the University of California, Riverside reveal. This "reverse evolution" is triggered by mutations in the GAME8 enzyme, leading to the production of ancient alkaloids for pest defense. While this remarkable adaptation is captivating, it poses no health risks to humans.

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Story summary

Wild tomatoes on the Galápagos Islands are fascinatingly reverting to their ancient roots, as researchers from the University of California, Riverside reveal. This "reverse evolution" is triggered by mutations in the GAME8 enzyme, leading to the production of ancient alkaloids for pest defense. While this remarkable adaptation is captivating, it poses no health risks to humans.