Physiological Changes and Transcriptomic Analysis throughout On-Tree Fruit Ripening Process in Persimmon (Diospyros...

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Persimmon fruit maturation research has primarily focused on postharvest conditions.
• Understanding on-tree ripening mechanisms is crucial for improving fruit quality and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of specific genes in on-tree persimmon fruit maturation.
• To analyze ethylene biosynthesis and response pathways during fruit development.
• To correlate gene expression with agronomical traits like skin color, weight, and firmness.

Main Methods:

• Sample collection from seven persimmon germplasm accessions at various developmental stages.
• Gene expression analysis of 13 genes in ethylene pathways.
• Agronomical trait evaluation (skin color, weight, firmness).
• Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to correlate gene expression and traits.

Main Results:

• Observed distinct gene expression patterns, with both up- and down-regulation during fruit development.
• Decreased expression of ethylene biosynthesis genes (DkACO1, DkACO2, DkACS2) and response genes (DkERS1, DkERF18) correlates with reduced ethylene production in mature fruits.
• Identified DkERF8 and DkERF16 as potential inducers of fruit softening and skin color change via DkXTH9 and DkPSY activation, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Provides molecular insights into the regulation of ethylene signaling during on-tree persimmon ripening.
• Elucidates the roles of specific transcription factors (DkERF8, DkERF16) in key ripening processes.
• Offers valuable information for understanding and potentially manipulating persimmon fruit maturation.