Ethylene in fruits: beyond ripening control

Area of Science:

• Plant Biology
• Horticultural Science
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Fruits are vital sources of nutrients, minerals, and fiber.
• Ethylene is a gaseous phytohormone primarily known for regulating fruit ripening.
• Emerging evidence indicates ethylene's involvement in fruit sex determination, fruit set, and growth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of ethylene in fruit development across various plant species.
• To explore the potential of manipulating ethylene pathways for crop improvement.
• To discuss recent findings on ethylene-independent functions of key ethylene pathway components.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on ethylene's role in fruit development.
• Analysis of findings from diverse species including cucumber, melon, tomato, rice, and maize.
• Examination of research on ethylene precursors and signaling components like ACC, EIN2, and EIN3.

Main Results:

• Ethylene significantly influences fruit sex determination, fruit set, and fruit growth, beyond ripening.
• Ethylene precursor ACC and signaling components EIN2 and EIN3 can exhibit ethylene-independent functions.
• Dosage-dependent ethylene functions and the importance of studying mutants in specific contexts were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• Ethylene plays a crucial and diverse role in fruit development, impacting sex determination, formation, and growth.
• Investigating ethylene-independent functions and pathway mutants is essential for a comprehensive understanding.
• This knowledge can significantly benefit horticulture crop breeding and enhance agricultural productivity.