Dissecting postharvest chilling injury through biotechnology. (December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Albornoz, Karin; Zhou, Jiaqi; Yu, Jingwei; Beckles, Diane M
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in biotechnology. Volume 78(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-12
• Subjects: Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 660.6
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2022.102790
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0958-1669

Abstract

Abstract : Paradoxically, refrigerating many fruits and vegetables destroys their quality, and may even accelerate their spoilage. This phenomenon, known as postharvest chilling injury (PCI), affects produce from tropical and subtropical regions and leads to economic and postharvest loss and waste. Low temperatures are used to pause the physiological processes associated with senescence, but upon rewarming, these processes may resume at an accelerated rate. Chilling-injured produce may be discarded for not meeting consumer expectations or may prematurely deteriorate. In this review, we describe progress made in identifying the cellular and molecular processes underlying PCI, and point to advances in biotechnological approaches for ameliorating symptoms. Further, we identify the gaps in knowledge that must be bridged to develop effective solutions to PCI. Graphical Abstract: ga1 Highlights: Postharvest chilling injury (PCI) is underreported and understudied, but undoubtedly leads to extensive postharvest loss and waste. PCI symptoms vary among species, therefore, targeted studies and solutions are needed. Functional genomics is broadening the molecular knowledge of PCI in diverse species. Still, some challenges hinder identifying the genes that comprehensively reduce PCI. A systems-biology approach would yield more data and fast-track PCI breeding efforts.