How does sharka affect the phenolics of plum fruit (Prunus domestica L.)?

Abstract

Plum pox virus (PPV), the causal agent of the sharka disease, is the most important viral disease in plums. To understand plant defense response against PPV-infection, changes in the composition of phenolics were studied in plum fruit (Prunus domestica L.). The phenolics were determined in visually undeformed and necrotic tissue during the last three ripening stages. The results indicated a significantly modified composition of anthocyanins, flavonols and hydroxycinnamic acids, in necrotic tissue the most. The phenolics differed significantly also between developmental stages and give insight into the phenolic profile of fallen unripe fruit. This study shows how PPV infection induces the biosynthesis of flavonoids in plum fruit.

Keywords

• plum pox virus
• anthocyanins
• flavonols, hydroxycinnamic acids
• necrosis