Editorial: Functional genomics in fruit trees: from 'omics to sustainable biotechnologies, volume II

"The Research Topic collects 10 manuscripts focused on cutting-edge topics in functional genomics of fruit trees, that can be grouped into three main themes: advancements in genome editing technologies, availability of tools and approaches for understanding gene family structure and function, and study of gene regulation through long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), transgenesis, and transcriptomic analysis (Figure 1). The first set of manuscripts showcases perspectives and limitations of transgene-free genome editing in fruit trees, the use of CRISPR/Cas9 constructs for the reduction of stomatal density in grapevine, and the generation of edited citrus varieties enriched in antioxidant compounds. A second group describes the use of comparative gene family analysis tools, of novel workflows for the Rosaceae, the creation of a comprehensive platform for germplasm innovation and functional genomics in Macadamia, and the construction of a high-density genetic linkage map to identify genetic loci responsible for seedlessness in mandarin. The third set of articles includes studies on citrus focused on the role of lncRNA in response to Huanglongbing (HLB), the fruit-specific expression of Ruby to improve anthocyanin accumulation, and the exploitation of the transcriptome relating to growth and palatability."