A METHOD TO REDUCE CITRUS FRUIT PEEL PITTING AND DELAY SENESCENCE

摘要

The present invention concerns compositions and methods for targeting the lipid signaling pathway via phospholipases to improve post-harvest peel disorders. When the inhibitory agents of the invention are applied to fruit after harvest, fruit quality is maintained compared to untreated fruit. The agents used to target the lipid signaling pathway inhibit one or more elements of the pathway, retarding or delaying onset of senescence, fruit peel pitting, and other senescence-related peel disorders. Preferably, the inhibitory agent applied to fruit inhibits phospholipases A, C, and/or D. More preferably, the inhibitory agent applied to fruit inhibits phospholipase A2. In one embodiment, the phospholipase inhibitor(s) are applied to fruit before harvest (preferably, immediately before harvest). Optionally, phospholipase inhibitors can be applied in the packaging house as part of the packaging and storage process. Phospholipase inhibitors can be applied in aqueous format or in combination with other substances such as waxes, a variety of which are commercially available. Prophylactic applications of phospholipase inhibitors will improve fruit arrival characteristics and maintain final fruit value.