Ascorbate biosynthesis during early fruit development is the main reason for its accumulation in kiwi.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ascorbic acid (AsA) is a unique antioxidant as well as an enzyme cofactor. Although it has multiple roles in plants, it is unclear how its accumulation is controlled at the expression level, especially in sink tissues. Kiwifruit (Actinidia) is well-known for its high ascorbate content. Our objective was to determine whether AsA accumulates in the fruits primarily through biosynthesis or because it is imported from the foliage.

Methodology/principal findings

We systematically investigated AsA levels, biosynthetic capacity, and mRNA expression of genes involved in AsA biosynthesis in kiwi (A. deliciosa cv. Qinmei). Recycling and AsA localization were also monitored during fruit development and among different tissue types. Over time, the amount of AsA, with its capa

SUBMITTER: Li M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3000333 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature