Regulation of Ethylene Production During Postproduction Handling of Flower Crops Progress Report –September 1996
Date 9/19/96
Title of Project Regulation of Ethylene Production During Postproduction
Handling of Flower Crops
Institution where work is being conducted Purdue University
Amount of Endowment Grant $12,500
Covering Period 1/1/96 to 12/31/96
Anticipated Date of Project Completion/Final Report 12/31/96
Individual(s) Conducting Project:
(List Project Leader First)
Dr. William R. Woodson - Title Professor
Telephone Number 317-494-1337
Regulation of Ethylene Production During Postproduction Handling of Flower
Crops
William R. Woodson
Purdue University
- Project Objectives:
- The postproduction quality of many flowers is limited by the increased
production of the plant hormone ethylene. This increased ethylene production,
in turn, leads to the premature senescence (death) of flower petals, the
shedding of floral organs, and the discoloration of flowers and foliage.
Our research is focused on the molecular mechanisms involved in the production
of ethylene by flowers. Our objectives am to identify critical cellular
factors that lead to the production of ethylene by harvested flowers and
to genetically engineer plants to reduce the synthesis of ethylene.
- Summary of Work Conducted and Results to Date:
- Through our research we have identified the genes that encode the enzymes
necessary for the biosynthesis of ethylene, and more recently the genes
involved in the perception of ethylene. This information has allowed us
to investigate the regulation of ethylene production and ethylene responses
in very precise ways. For example, we now know that one of the earliest
events after harvest of carnations is the expression of the gene responsible
for perception of ethylene. This allows the flower to respond to low levels
of ethylene and results in increased ethylene synthesis. We have used this
information to develop genetic engineering strategies to improve the post
production quality of flower crops.
- Future Plans Covered by the Endowment Grant:
- During the next funding year we hope to study the regulation of the gene
involved in ethylene perception. We will conduct experiments in an attempt
to determine the cellular factors responsible for the increased expression
of this gene following flower harvest. In addition, we will generate several
new carnation genotypes by genetic engineering in an attempt to inhibit
the response to ethylene. These varieties will include several of the potted
carnations. The rationale here is that improved floral longevity in potted
carnatious would add significantly to the value of this crop.
- Anticipated Benefits for Floral Industry:
- The negative effects of ethylene on harvested floral products are well
documented. In recent years our industry has embraced several treatments
designed to inhibit the synthesis and/or effects of ethylene, includhig
the extensive use of silver thiosulfate. Silver thiosulfate has recently
been banned in much of Europe and will not likely be available in the US
in the near future. Because of this, alternative strategies are currently
needed for the regulation of ethylene synthesis and responses in flower
crops. Our research is leading to the development of these alternative
strategies that will likely lead to long term solutions to postharvest
handling problems resulting from the synthesis of, or exposure to ethylene.
