Sasaki, K.; Mimida, N.; Nonaka, S.; Ezura, H.; Imai, R.

We developed a non-culture and DNA-free genome editing technique for melon using in plant Particle Bombardment (iPB-RNP). The method was employed to create CmACO1 mutants. One of the mutant lines exhibited an extended shelf life due to ethylene deficiency during fruit ripening. As no cell culture step is involved, the iPB-RNP method is expected to overcome limitations associated with conventional genome editing, such as genotype dependency and somatic variations. Thus, this methodology holds significant potential for application in commercial melon breeding and across a wide range of Cucurbitaceae species.