The tomato HIGH PIGMENT1/DAMAGED DNA BINDING PROTEIN 1 gene contributes to regulation of fruit ripening

Abstract

Fruit development: genetically improving fruit quality and shelf-life A mutation in the tomato gene encoding UV-damaged DNA binding protein 1 (DDB1) delays fruit ripening and softening. Previous studies have established that DDB1 mutants produce fruit with high levels of carotenoids, flavonoids, and vitamin C. However, little was known about the effects of the mutation on fruit ripening processes. Yongsheng Liu at Hefei University of Technology, China, and colleagues showed that DDB1 is implicated in the synthesis of the fruit ripening hormone ethylene, the expression of ripening-associated genes, particularly during early fruit development, and cell wall-related genes. The slower ripening and increased firmness of DDB1 mutant tomatoes highlight this gene as a useful target for improving both the shelf-life and nutritional value of fleshy fruits.