Author: Alferez, Fernando

Source: Stewart Postharvest Review, Volume 4, Number 3, June 2008 , pp. 1-8(8)

Publisher: Stewart Postharvest Solutions

Abstract:

Purpose of review: To place in perspective a wide number of postharvest disorders and mechanisms of control, taking into account that membrane integrity is compromised upon stress by enzymatic and non-enzymatic disorganisation and activation of the oxylipin cascade.

Findings: Stress may activate enzymatic and non-enzymatic degradation cascades affecting plant membranes. Phospholipases, phospholipids and galactolipids play important signalling roles in response to stress, but massive membrane disorganisation may lead to postharvest disorders impacting crop quality and shelf-life. Application of phospholipase inhibitors and strategies aimed at preserving membrane homeostasis have been shown to preserve crop quality.

Directions for future research: Translational research from model plants to crops of horticultural interest should be approached during the next few years in this area. Additional information on changes in phospholipid and galactolipid composition after stress is needed as it may vary among crops and with postharvest conditions. Stress may lead to either tissue resistance or deterioration, and mechanisms determining the fate of membranes after phospholipase activation in response to stress remain mostly unknown. The molecular and biochemical basis for efficacy of postharvest treatments aimed at maintaining membrane integrity are poorly understood in most horticultural crops.

Keywords: LIPID MEMBRANES; OXYLIPINS; PHOSPHOLIPASES; POSTHARVEST STRESS

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2212/spr.2008.3.7

Publication date: 2008-06-01

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