Skip to main content
ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Wenatchee, Washington » Physiology and Pathology of Tree Fruits Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #363591
Research Project: Developmental Genomics and Metabolomics Influencing Temperate Tree Fruit Quality

Location: Physiology and Pathology of Tree Fruits Research

Title: Apple fruit cutin composition during storage is altered by sunlight exposure in the orchard [abstract]

Author
item Rudell Jr, David
item Poirier, Brenton
item Honaas, Loren
item McTavish, Christine
item TORRES, CAROLINA - Washington State University
item Mattheis, James

Submitted to: American Society of Horticulture Science Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/26/2019
Publication Date: 7/23/2019
Citation: Rudell Jr, D.R., Poirier, B.C., Honaas, L.A., McTavish, C.K., Torres, C., Mattheis, J.P. 2019. Apple fruit cutin composition during storage is altered by sunlight exposure in the orchard [abstract]. American Society of Horticulture Science Meeting. 53(9):S130.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Cutin is a polymeric protective coating of most aerial plant surfaces that is composed of primarily aliphatic mono, di, and tri-hydroxy fatty acids. Apple fruit cuticle is compiled of multiple layers of cutin overlaid and intercalated with a complex mixture of waxes and various freely soluble non-polar compounds. We extracted, hydrolyzed, and analyzed ‘Granny Smith’ apple cutin from stored fruit to determine if preharvest light exposure impacts postharvest cutin composition. Microscopic analysis revealed layered cutin periclinal and differential anticlinal deposition. Differences of cutin composition were also evident and continued to change with storage duration. Along with the freely extractable wax components, the dynamic composition and structure of this coating may govern gas, solute, and liquid transport influencing cell and fruit physiology to the point of altering fruit appearance or even ripening. Difference of cutin composition with sun exposure may provoke or be related to development of sunscald or other apple peel disorders.