Molecular analysis of cuticle biosynthesis and deposition in developing sweet cherry fruit

• Applicant: Dr. Merianne Alkio
• Subject Area: Plant Cultivation, Plant Nutrition, Agricultural Technology
• Term: from 2010 to 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 174363743

Rain-induced fruit cracking is a serious problem in sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) production worldwide. A major factor predisposing fruit to cracking is the formation of microscopic fractures (microcracks) in the outermost layer of the fruit skin, the cuticular membrane (CM). Microcracks result from elastic and plastic strain of the CM, which in turn is caused by inadequate CM deposition during the phase of rapid fruit growth. While the role of microcracks in fruit cracking is well established, nothing is known about the molecular biology of CM biosynthesis and deposition in sweet cherry fruit. This project investigates the molecular genetics of CM formation in sweet cherry. The aim is to understand, why new CM material is only delivered during early fruit development but not later on. In detail, we will 1) analyse CM deposition in developing fruits, 2) identify genes that contribute to CM formation in sweet cherry fruits, 3) identify CM-related genes that are expressed at high levels early in fruit development and at low levels in maturing fruits, and 4) investigate the biological functions of CM-related genes. The data obtained are relevant for both the basic research of plant CM biology, and for fruit crop breeding and production. Furthermore, they will be useful in studying surface disorders in other fruit crops including cracking of grape berry or russeting in apple and other species.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Moritz Knoche