Relationships Between Cell Structure Alterations and Berry Abscission in Table Grapes

Area of Science:

• Horticultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Postharvest Biology

Background:

• Postharvest berry abscission is a significant issue in table grape storage.
• Understanding the structural basis of berry detachment is crucial for extending shelf life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between structural alterations and postharvest berry abscission in three table grape cultivars.
• To analyze microstructural and ultrastructural changes in relation to berry detachment force and abscission over storage time.

Main Methods:

• Microstructure and ultrastructure analysis of stalk-berry junction and berry brush cells.
• Measurement of berry detachment force.
• Assessment of berry abscission rates during storage at room temperature for 0, 3, and 6 days.

Main Results:

• "Muscat Kyoho" and "Kyoho" showed increased cell lignification and suberization initially, followed by degradation and disappearance of cells.
• "Nanyu" exhibited less cell alteration, with smaller, denser berry brush cells and slower structural changes.
• Berry detachment force decreased, and berry abscission increased over storage, with "Nanyu" showing the lowest abscission and highest detachment force.

Conclusions:

• Structural alterations in grape berry junctions and brush cells are directly linked to postharvest berry abscission.
• Cultivar-specific structural differences influence susceptibility to berry drop during storage.
• "Nanyu" demonstrates superior postharvest stability due to its distinct structural characteristics.