ENHANCE MARKET QUALITY, REDUCE POSTHARVEST LOSS, AND INCREASE UTILIZATION OF DECIDUOUS TREE FRUITS

The focus of the objectives in this proposal is improving quality and reducing postharvest loss of deciduous tree fruit (chiefly apples, pears and cherries). Our investigations will lead to new knowledge concerning biochemical and molecular causes of physiological disorders, that curative technologies can be developed and implemented, and identification of genes and gene regulatory mechanisms governing such fruit quality characteristics as texture, flavor, and phytonutrient content. Objective 1. Determine how pre- and postharvest factors influence the development of physiological storage disorders of apples. 1.a. Determine effect of pre- and postharvest environment on fruit epidermal tissue development and onset of physiological peel disorders. 1.b. Identify physiological, biochemical and molecular changes during fruit maturation and storage associated with development of internal browning. Objective 2. Identify genes regulating firmness loss and carotenoid metabolism in apple.