genome region containing the last exon of the RIN gene entirely and
probably part of a regulatory region for expressing the next gene,
Macrocalyx (MC) [11,27,28]. The mutation reduces accumulation of
the MC mRNA, resulting in enlargement of sepal size and incomplete
development of the pedicel abscission zone [11,28]. Our novel
knockout mutations in the RIN locus might avoid this side effect,
thus the mutants might be utilized as a new resource in breeding
programs, for example, in developing cultivars with extended shelf
life similarly to the conventional rin mutant that has long been
utilized for practical breeding. Also, in aiding molecular characterization
of RIN homologs from other fleshy fruit species, the null
mutant might be a useful host for ectopic expression of homologous
genes.