A Fresh Take on Peppermint

Peppermint is getting a genetic makeover! UC Davis researchers, led by Distinguished Professor Luca Comai, used radiation-induced mutations to create more than 250 genetically distinct peppermint variants from the popular Black Mitcham variety.

These new variants could help researchers uncover genes linked to disease resistance, flavor, and other useful traits—opening up fresh possibilities for improving this flavorful crop.

Read the publication: PNAS – Layer-specific genetic variation unlocks secondary metabolite diversity in long-lived clonal peppermint

Read the UC Davis story: A Fresh Approach to Peppermint