Alkane biosynthesis is promoted in methyl jasmonate-treated sweet cherry (Prunus avium) fruit cuticles

BackgroundThe cuticle plays an important role in the survival of plants, and it is important to preserve the quality of fleshy fruits like sweet cherry. Plant hormones play a role in cuticle formation. In this sense, jasmonates have been shown to induce cuticle biosynthesis, but until today this has not been demonstrated in sweet cherry fruit. Therefore, the effect of exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) application at the fruit set stage on the expression levels of cuticle synthesis-related genes and the wax composition of the isolated cuticle was studied in developing and ripe fruits of sweet cherry (Prunus avium 'Bing'), respectively. ResultsMeJA treatment resulted in up-regulation of the cuticle biosynthesis-related gene expression, such as PaWINA, PaWINB, PaKCS1, PaKCS6, PaLACS1, PaLACS2, PaWS, and PaWBC11. These genes play a vital role in the elongation and transport of fatty acids, and wax biosynthesis. Analysis of cuticular components in ripe fruit showed an increase in long-chain linear aliphatic wax compounds, particularly C27, C28, C29, C30, and C31 alkanes. ConclusionExogenous MeJA application at the fruit set stage of sweet cherry has a significant effect on the wax composition of the ripe fruit cuticle, particularly in terms of alkane biosynthesis. The results of this study may provide insights into the regulation of cuticle biosynthesis by jasmonates and be useful for improving fruit quality and storage life. & COPY; 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Automated summary

Exogenous MeJA application at the fruit set stage of sweet cherry enhances cuticle biosynthesis and wax composition, resulting in increased content of long-chain linear fatty acids and alkanes in the fruit peel. These findings are important for improving fruit quality and extending storage life.