Scientists Deciphered the DNA of Yerba Mate

A decade-long research led by scientists from Argentina, Brazil, United States and Europe has reached a great milestone, deciphering the whole genome sequencing of yerba mate leaf. This scientific discovery is already considered a huge breakthrough and can potentially revolutionize the whole yerba mate industry.

The study, published last month in eLife journal​, the team of scientists revealed the large genome size of yerba mate that that is a result of a whole-genome duplication during an early evolutionary history of Ilex Paraguariensis. This explains the remarkable and diverse amount of beneficial compounds contained in yerba mate, such as polyphenols, xanthines, saponins and wide range of minerals that give this plant antioxidant, anti-diabetic and memory-improving properties, amongst many others.

Another important discovery in this study provides new convincing evidence about caffeine biosynthesis in yerba mate. Through examining the genetic code of yerba mate, the researchers found out that it developed its own pathway to produce caffeine that is distinct from coffee plants, which can be a hint to why the stimulation effects of mate are so different to other caffeinated beverages¹.

What does that mean to the future of yerba mate industry? Several experts already say that this scientific development could revolutionize it. Deciphering the whole-genome sequencing opened up a new set of opportunities for understanding and potentially enhancing the beneficial properties of yerba mate through selection. For example, this discovery may allow the selective breeding of decaffeinated yerba mate or improving, say, antioxidant properties even more. Another practical application of this study is creating new possibilities for developing more resistant varieties of yerba mate, that are adapted to different kinds of soils and climates.

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