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Fire blight is the most important bacterial disease in apple (Malus × domestica). Owing to the severity of the caused damages, fire blight resistance is an important breeding objective. In the past, various phenotypic screening methods and strategies have been used to identify new sources of fire blight resistance for breeding. In this study, breeding material, modern cultivars and heirloom accessions were phenotyped by artificial inoculation of shoots under greenhouse (n = 273) and flowers under field conditions (n = 20) and genotyped for known resistance genes and quantitative trait loci by using molecular markers. A comparison between the two phenotyping methods was made in relation to the two control varieties 'Gala Galaxy' and 'Enterprise'. The results obtained for the resistance sources FB_MR5, Fb_E and FB_F7 are consistent with previously published data, showing a large effect of the two major resistance genes FB_MR5 ('Malus × robusta 5') and Fb_E ('Evereste'). Genotypes carrying FB_F7 showed greater variation in their resistance levels, but were on average less susceptible than 'Gala Galaxy' and genotypes with no known resistance gene or quantitative trait locus (QTLs) in both tests. No correlation was found between the results of 18 genotypes phenotyped with both inoculation methods. The ranking of genotypes according to their flower and shoot fire blight resistance varied between the two methods. However, 11 of the 18 tested genotypes showed no significant difference between the results of the two methods. Additionally, it was found that flower shedding appears to be an important triggered mechanism for flower resistance to fire blight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost 10,000 of apple cultivars are described worldwide but only a few of them are dominating in commercial apple orchards. The decline in genetic diversity could lead to negative consequences in terms of adaptability, resistance and even consumption. Apple genetic resources in Norway are conserved in several local clonal archives. The aim of this study was to evaluate Norwegian heritage apple cultivars from a pomological, agronomical, and chemical point of view, identify the most important quality parameters, and select cultivars with desirable traits for modern markets and breeding purposes. In total 75 heritage and 4 standard apple cultivars were evaluated at the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research – NIBIO Ullensvang, during 2018–2020. Based on individual investigations of various fruit quality characters, cultivar groups with special properties were selected for the industry, for making concentrate and fresh juice, and for medical properties. According to the soluble solid content, sweetness index, fruit size, acid, dry matter, and phenolic content, several groups of cultivars have high potential value for modern breeding programmes. Based on overall fruit quality, heritage cultivars Løeeple, Raud Gravenstein, and Rondestveit were selected for fresh consumption.

Abstract Background Russeting is a major problem in many fruit crops. Russeting is caused by environmental factors such as wounding or moisture exposure of the fruit surface. Despite extensive research, the molecular sequence that triggers russet initiation remains unclear. Here, we present high-resolution transcriptomic data by controlled russet induction at very early stages of fruit development. During Phase I, a patch of the fruit surface is exposed to surface moisture. For Phase II, moisture exposure is terminated, and the formerly exposed surface remains dry. We targeted differentially expressed transcripts as soon as 24 h after russet induction. Results During moisture exposure (Phase I) of ‘Pinova’ apple, transcripts associated with the cell cycle, cell wall, and cuticle synthesis (SHN3) decrease, while those related to abiotic stress increase. NAC35 and MYB17 were the earliest induced genes during Phase I. They are therefore linked to the initial processes of cuticle microcracking. After moisture removal (Phase II), the expression of genes related to meristematic activity increased (WOX4 within 24 h, MYB84 within 48 h). Genes related to lignin synthesis (MYB52) and suberin synthesis (MYB93, WRKY56) were upregulated within 3 d after moisture removal. WOX4 and AP2B3 are the earliest differentially expressed genes induced in Phase II. They are therefore linked to early events in periderm formation. The expression profiles were consistent between two different seasons and mirrored differences in russet susceptibility in a comparison of cultivars. Furthermore, expression profiles during Phase II of moisture induction were largely identical to those following wounding. Conclusions The combination of a unique controlled russet induction technique with high-resolution transcriptomic data allowed for the very first time to analyse the formation of cuticular microcracks and periderm in apple fruit immediately after the onset of triggering factors. This data provides valuable insights into the spatial-temporal dynamics of russeting, including the synthesis of cuticles, dedifferentiation of cells, and impregnation of cell walls with suberin and lignin.

Nectria dematiosa exhibiting orange red colour perithecia on stems and branches of young and old apple trees were reported under field conditions during 2020 and 2021. Reddish discoloration followed by papery appearance of stem and branches were the characteristic symptoms observed. Ascomata were non‐papillate, surface irregular comprising numerous cylindrical to narrowly clavate asci. Ascospores were ellipsoidal to fusiform, straight or slightly curved, hyaline with 0 to 1‐septa. Richard and Royal Delicious variety of apple were more susceptible with moderate to high severity of the European canker. Based on nucleotide homology and phylogenetic analysis, the pathogen was confirmed as N. dematiosa (accession no. OQ152022). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of N. dematiosa causing European canker of apple in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The apple (Malus x domestica) scab (Venturia inaequalis) resistance genes Rvi4 and Rvi15 were mapped to a similar region on the top of linkage group 2 and both resistance genes elicit the same type of resistance reaction, i.e., a hypersensitive response; hence, it is suspected that the two genes may be the same. As the two resistance genes Rvi4 and Rvi15 are currently used in apple breeding, it is important to clarify whether the two resistance genes are the same or not. Several approaches were used to make this determination. First, the pedigree of the genotype GMAL 2473, the source of Rvi15, was reconstructed. GMAL 2473 was found to be an F1 of ‘Russian seedling’, the genotype, which is known to also be the source of Rvi4. Next, it was further demonstrated that ‘Regia’, a cultivar known to carry Rvi4 (and Rvi2), carries the same gene (Vr2-C), which was demonstrated to be the gene inducing Rvi15 resistance. Finally, it was shown that transgenic lines carrying Vr2-C are compatible with race 4 apple scab isolates. Taken all together, these results defnitively demonstrate that Rvi4 and Rvi15 are the same resistance gene. For future studies, we suggest referring to this resistance with the frst name that was assigned to this gene, namely Rvi4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For some apple cultivars, inadequate red fruit color development can reduce crop value. The use of reflective groundcovers has been demonstrated to improve red coloration in apples in other regions, but evaluation in the southeastern USA has been limited. To address this, we compared the performance of multiple reflective groundcovers in 2018 and 2020 on mature 'Fuji' trees in Edneyville, NC, USA. Woven reflective (Extenday® DayBright, Lumilys® WH100, Beltech PD2911, and Belton experimental), mylar, and sod groundcovers were deployed ~5 weeks before anticipated harvest. The effects of the treatment on light reflectance (photosynthetically active and UV radiation), fruit color, fruit quality, and crop value were determined. Across both years of evaluation, reflective groundcovers were consistent in increasing the reflectance of photosynthetically active radiation. However, only Extenday® DayBright consistently increased reflected UV radiation (250–400 nm), red fruit coloration at commercial harvest, and crop value. Fruit maturity and sunburn incidence were not influenced by any treatment in both years. Reflected UV light quality was not characterized, but it is clear that UV250–400nm reflectance intensity is critical to enhance 'Fuji' fruit color development. Growers in the southeastern US can use reflective groundcovers to enhance red fruit coloration to meet market demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Russeting is a major problem in many fruit crops. Russeting is caused by environmental factors such as wounding or moisture exposure of the fruit surface. Despite extensive research, the molecular sequence that triggers russet initiation remains unclear. Here, we present high-resolution transcriptomic data by controlled russet induction at very early stages of fruit development. During Phase I, a patch of the fruit surface is exposed to surface moisture. For Phase II, moisture exposure is terminated, and the formerly exposed surface remains dry. We targeted differentially expressed transcripts as soon as 24 h after russet induction. Results: During moisture exposure (Phase I) of 'Pinova' apple, transcripts associated with the cell cycle, cell wall, and cuticle synthesis (SHN3) decrease, while those related to abiotic stress increase. NAC35 and MYB17 were the earliest induced genes during Phase I. They are therefore linked to the initial processes of cuticle microcracking. After moisture removal (Phase II), the expression of genes related to meristematic activity increased (WOX4 within 24 h, MYB84 within 48 h). Genes related to lignin synthesis (MYB52) and suberin synthesis (MYB93, WRKY56) were upregulated within 3 d after moisture removal. WOX4 and AP2B3 are the earliest differentially expressed genes induced in Phase II. They are therefore linked to early events in periderm formation. The expression profiles were consistent between two different seasons and mirrored differences in russet susceptibility in a comparison of cultivars. Furthermore, expression profiles during Phase II of moisture induction were largely identical to those following wounding. Conclusions: The combination of a unique controlled russet induction technique with high-resolution transcriptomic data allowed for the very first time to analyse the formation of cuticular microcracks and periderm in apple fruit immediately after the onset of triggering factors. This data provides valuable insights into the spatial-temporal dynamics of russeting, including the synthesis of cuticles, dedifferentiation of cells, and impregnation of cell walls with suberin and lignin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key uses of flow cytometry is the estimation of nuclear DNA content and ploidy level, which has proven a reliable and effective approach in many studies. The primary goal of this research is to estimate the nuclear DNA content and ploidy level of the apple genetic resource collection maintained in the Fruit Research Institute's living Malus collection for the first time using flow cytometry (for autochthonous varieties). Fresh apple leaf tissues were used for the flow cytometry analysis. For each genotype, nuclear DNA analysis was performed on three individual plants. Propidium iodide (PI) is used as a fluorochrome. Common vetch (3.65 pg/2C) was used as an internal standard. The 2C nuclear DNA content ranged from 1.46 pg to 2.45 pg. The variation in nuclear DNA content within the collection was statistically significant. Apple genotypes were split into two groups, diploid and triploid, according to their nuclear DNA content. Based on these results, 16.47% of apple genotypes were triploid, while 83.53% were diploid. The 2C nuclear DNA content in triploid genotypes varied from 2.04 to 2.45 pg and in diploids from 1.46 to 1.69 pg. The average nuclear DNA content in diploids was 1.56 pg, whereas it was 2.29 pg in triploids. The results of the study will be useful to determine the best strategies in breeding programs, as ploidy is one of the most important characteristics to consider in selecting parents for breeding purposes in addition to their agronomic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background European canker, caused by the fungal pathogen Neonectria ditissima, is an economically damaging disease in apple producing regions of the world – especially in areas with moderate temperatures and high rainfall. The pathogen has a wide host range of hardwood perennial species, causing trunk cankers, dieback and branch lesions in its hosts. Although apple scion germplasm carrying partial resistance to the disease has been described, little is still known of the genetic basis for this quantitative resistance. Results Resistance to Neonectria ditissima was studied in a multiparental population of apple scions using several phenotyping methods. The studied population consists of individuals from multiple families connected through a common pedigree. The degree of disease of each individual in the population was assessed in three experiments: artificial inoculations of detached dormant shoots, potted trees in a glasshouse and in a replicated field experiment. The genetic basis of the differences in disease was studied using a pedigree-based analysis (PBA). Three quantitative trait loci (QTL), on linkage groups (LG) 6, 8 and 10 were identified in more than one of the phenotyping strategies. An additional four QTL, on LG 2, 5, 15 and 16 were only identified in the field experiment. The QTL on LG2 and 16 were further validated in a biparental population. QTL effect sizes were small to moderate with 4.3 to 19% of variance explained by a single QTL. A subsequent analysis of QTL haplotypes revealed a dynamic response to this disease, in which the estimated effect of a haplotype varied over the field time-points. Conclusions This study describes the first identified QTL associated with resistance to N. ditissima in apple scion germplasm. The results from this study show that QTL present in germplasm commonly used in apple breeding have a low to medium effect on resistance to N. ditissima. Hence, multiple QTL will need to be considered to improve resistance through breeding.

The plant phyllosphere is colonized by microbial communities that can influence the fitness and growth of their host, including the host's resilience to plant pathogens. There are multiple factors involved in shaping the assemblages of bacterial and fungal endophytes within the phyllosphere, including host genetics and environment. In this work, the role of host genetics in plant-microbiome assembly was studied in a full-sibling family of apple (Malus x domestica) trees infected with the fungal pathogen Neonectria ditissima. A Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) analysis showed that there are multiple loci which influence the abundance of individual endophytic taxa, with the majority of QTL having a moderate to large effect (20-40%) on endophyte abundance. QTL regions on LG 1, 3, 4, 5, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 15 were shown to affect multiple taxa. Only a small proportion of the variation in overall taxonomic composition was affected by host genotype, with significant QTL hits for principal components explaining <8% and <7.4% of the total variance in bacterial and fungal composition, respectively. Four of the identified QTL colocalised with previously identified regions associated with tolerance to Neonectria ditissima. These results suggest that there is a genetic basis shaping apple endophyte composition and that microbehost associations in apple could be tailored through breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Apple russeting is mainly due to the accumulation of suberin in the cell wall in response to defects and damages in the cuticle layer. Over the last decades, massive efforts have been done to better understand the complex interplay between pathways involved in the suberization process in model plants. However, the regulation mechanisms which orchestrate this complex process are still under investigation. Our previous studies highlighted a number of transcription factor candidates from the Myeloblastosis (MYB) transcription factor family which might regulate suberization in russeted or suberized apple fruit skin. Among these, we identified MdMYB68, which was co-expressed with number of well-known key suberin biosynthesis genes. Method: To validate the MdMYB68 function, we conducted an heterologous transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana combined with whole gene expression profiling analysis (RNA-Seq), quantification of lipids and cell wall monosaccharides, and microscopy. Results: MdMYB68 overexpression is able to trigger the expression of the whole suberin biosynthesis pathway. The lipid content analysis confirmed that MdMYB68 regulates the deposition of suberin in cell walls. Furthermore, we also investigated the alteration of the non-lipid cell wall components and showed that MdMYB68 triggers a massive modification of hemicelluloses and pectins. These results were finally supported by the microscopy. Discussion: Once again, we demonstrated that the heterologous transient expression in N. benthamiana coupled with RNA-seq is a powerful and efficient tool to investigate the function of suberin related transcription factors. Here, we suggest MdMYB68 as a new regulator of the aliphatic and aromatic suberin deposition in apple fruit, and further describe, for the first time, rearrangements occurring in the carbohydrate cell wall matrix, preparing this suberin deposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant phyllosphere is colonized by microbial communities that can influence the fitness and growth of their host, including the host’s resilience to plant pathogens.There are multiple factors involved in shaping the assemblages of bacterial and fungal endophytes within the phyllosphere, including host genetics and environment. In this work, the role of host genetics in plant-microbiome assembly was studied in a full-sibling family of apple (Malus x domestica) trees infected with the fungal pathogen Neonectria ditissima. A Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) analysis showed that there are multiple loci which influence the abundance of individual endophytic taxa, with the majority of QTL having a moderate to large effect (20-40%) on endophyte abundance. QTL regions on LG 1, 3, 4, 5, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 15 were shown to affect multiple taxa. Only a small proportion of the variation in overall taxonomic composition was affected by host genotype, with significant QTL hits for principal components explaining

Biofumigation with slow-release diffusers of essential oils (EOs) of basil, oregano, savoury, thyme, lemon, and fennel was assessed for the control of blue mould of apples, caused by Penicillium expansum. In vitro, the ability of the six EOs to inhibit the mycelial growth was evaluated at concentrations of 1.0, 0.5, and 0.1%. EOs of thyme, savoury, and oregano, at all three concentrations, and basil, at 1.0 and 0.5%, were effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of P. expansum. In vivo, disease incidence and severity were evaluated on 'Opal' apples artificially inoculated with the pathogen and treated at concentrations of 1.0% and 0.5% of EOs. The highest efficacy in reducing blue mould was observed with EOs of lemon and oregano at 1.0% after 60 days of storage at 1 ± 1 °C (incidence of rot, 3 and 1%, respectively) and after a further 14 days of shelf-life at 15 ± 1 °C (15 and 17%). Firmness, titratable acidity, and total soluble solids were evaluated at harvest, after cold storage, and after shelf-life. Throughout the storage period, no evident phytotoxic effects were observed. The EOs used were characterised through GC-MS to analyse their compositions. Moreover, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the cabinets were characterised during storage using the SPME-GC-MS technique. The antifungal effects of EOs were confirmed both in vitro and in vivo and the possible mechanisms of action were hypothesised. High concentrations of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds in the EOs explain the efficacy of biofumigation in postharvest disease control. These findings provide new insights for the development of sustainable strategies for the management of postharvest diseases and the reduction of fruit losses during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of grey mould rot of apples. The efficacy of biofumigation with thyme (Thymus vulgaris), savoury (Satureja montana), and basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oils (EOs) at 1%, 0.5%, and 0.1% concentrations were tested against B. cinerea. In vitro, the results showed 100% growth inhibition at 1% concentration for all oils. Subsequent biofumigation experiments on apples of cultivar 'Opal' with 1% EOs showed that, after 60 d storage, thyme and savoury EOs significantly reduced grey mould rot incidence (average incidence 2% for both treatments) compared to the control (7%). Analyses of quality indicated slightly higher fruit firmness for 1% thyme at 30 d and slightly higher titratable acidity for 1% thyme and savoury at 60 d. Sampling of the atmosphere inside the cabinets was performed to characterize and quantify the volatile components of EOs released through biofumigation. Though thymol and p-cymene were the main components of thyme EO, the antimicrobial activity was mainly due to the presence of thymol and, to a lower extent, of carvacrol. In savoury EO, carvacrol and p-cymene were the main components, whereas in basil EO, linalool and estragole were mainly present. Metabarcoding analyses showed that the epiphytic microbiome had higher richness and evenness compared to their endophytic counterpart. By the end of shelf-life, treatments with thyme EO reduced B. cinerea abundance compared to the inoculated control for both endophytes (from 36.5% to 1.5%) and epiphytes (from 7.0% to 0.7%), while favouring a significant increase in Penicillium species both in endophytes (from 0.2% to 21.5%) and epiphytes (from 0.5% to 18.6%). Results indicate that thyme EO (1%) and savoury EO (1%) are equally effective in hampering grey mould rot development in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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For some apple cultivars, inadequate red fruit color development can reduce crop value. The use of reflective groundcovers has been demonstrated to improve red coloration in apples in other regions, but evaluation in the southeastern USA has been limited. To address this, we compared the performance of multiple reflective groundcovers in 2018 and 2020 on mature ‘Fuji’ trees in Edneyville, NC, USA. Woven reflective (Extenday® DayBright, Lumilys® WH100, Beltech PD2911, and Belton experimental), mylar, and sod groundcovers were deployed ~5 weeks before anticipated harvest. The effects of the treatment on light reflectance (photosynthetically active and UV radiation), fruit color, fruit quality, and crop value were determined. Across both years of evaluation, reflective groundcovers were consistent in increasing the reflectance of photosynthetically active radiation. However, only Extenday® DayBright consistently increased reflected UV radiation (250–400 nm), red fruit coloration at commercial harvest, and crop value. Fruit maturity and sunburn incidence were not influenced by any treatment in both years. Reflected UV light quality was not characterized, but it is clear that UV250–400nm reflectance intensity is critical to enhance ‘Fuji’ fruit color development. Growers in the southeastern US can use reflective groundcovers to enhance red fruit coloration to meet market demands.

The success of apple production is influenced by frost damages. Occurrence of extreme temperatures is increasing worldwide because of global warming, so the risk of frost damages is also increasing in apple orchards during dormancy and blooming time. In our work the frost hardiness of flower buds of eight apple cultivars was observed with artificial freezing tests during four subsequent dormancy periods in Hungary. The studied cultivar assortment contained two standard commercial cultivars (‘Gala’, ‘Idared’), two scab-resistant cultivars from abroad breeding programmes (‘Florina’, ‘Prima’) and four new Hungarian multi-resistant (mainly scab-resistant) cultivars (‘Artemisz’, ‘Cordelia’, ‘Hesztia’, ‘Rosmerta’). There were remarkable differences between cultivars and years from the aspect of frost hardiness of generative overwintering organs. At the end of hardening period, in January, the LT50 values of flower buds were between -22.4 °C and -30.4 °C according to cultivar and year. LT50 means the temperature causing 50 % frost damage in the flower buds of the certain cultivar in the certain time. ‘Gala’ and ‘Florina’ were the most frost hardy, while ‘Prima’, ‘Cordelia’ and ‘Idared’ the most sensitive to frost. Cold hardiness values of flower buds of ‘Artemisz’, ‘Rosmerta’ and ‘Hesztia’ cultivars were regularly between the values of two extreme groups. In winters with inappropriate weather the generative overwintering organs were unable to reach the genetically possible frost hardiness of them.

Our previous studies, comparing russeted vs. waxy apple skin, highlighted a MYeloBlastosys (Myb) transcription factor (MdMYB52), which displayed a correlation with genes associated to the suberization process. The present article aims to assess its role and function in the suberization process. Phylogenetic analyses and research against Arabidopsis thaliana MYBs database were first performed and the tissue specific expression of MdMYB52 was investigated using RT-qPCR. The function of MdMYB52 was further investigated using Agrobacterium-mediated transient overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. An RNA-Seq analysis was performed to highlight differentially regulated genes in response MdMYB52. Transcriptomic data were supported by analytical chemistry and microscopy. A massive decreased expression of photosynthetic and primary metabolism pathways was observed with a concomitant increased expression of genes associated with phenylpropanoid and lignin biosynthesis, cell wall modification and senescence. Interestingly key genes involved in the synthesis of suberin phenolic components were observed. The analytical chemistry displayed a strong increase in the lignin content in the cell walls during MdMYB52 expression. More specifically, an enrichment in G-Unit lignin residues was observed, supporting transcriptomic data as well as previous work describing the suberin phenolic domain as a G-unit enriched lignin-like polymer. The time-course qPCR analysis revealed that the observed stress response, might be explain by this lignin biosynthesis and by a possible programmed senescence triggered by MdMYB52. The present work supports a crucial regulatory role for MdMYB52 in the biosynthesis of the suberin phenolic domain and possibly in the fate of suberized cells in russeted apple skins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valsa mali is the main pathogenic fungus that causes the apple Valsa canker, a destructive disease severely threatening apple production in the world. However, the underlying key components involved in resistance against V. mali in apple trees remain largely unexplored. Here, we isolated and functionally characterized a G-type lectin S-receptor-like protein kinase MdSRLK3 from the cultivar Royal Gala derivative line GL-3. qRT-PCR showed that the relative expression of MdSRLK3 in apple branches reached its highest level at 24 h post V. mali inoculation, which was 13.42 times higher than without inoculation. Transient overexpression of MdSRLK3 enhanced apple resistance against V. mali, while transient silencing of MdSRLK3 reduced its resistance against the pathogen. More importantly, stable silencing of MdSRLK3 resulted in reduced resistance against this fungus. Furthermore, we demonstrated that MdSRLK3 positively regulated apple resistance by affecting the Ca2+ signaling pathway, and the regulation was also related to the H2O2 and callose signaling pathways. Overall, our data reveal that MdSRLK3 is a positive regulator of apple immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In tree fruit crops, the crop load is one factor that has an influence on the vegetative growth of the trees. However, since trees vary in leaf area and associated fruit bearing capacity, the number of fruit per tree alone is not sufficient to predict their vegetative growth. In the present study, it was investigated whether the leaf area to fruit ratio of trees variable in size and crop load, measured automatically with a LiDAR laser scanner, have an influence on growth properties of the annual shoots. Canopy leaf area, the number of fruit per tree and the leaf area to fruit ratio of apple trees from two commercial apple orchards of the cultivar 'Gala' grown on sandy soils were scanned with a LiDAR laser scanner over a two-year period (n=12 trees per orchard and year). Additionally, the amount of carbon partitioned to fruit and annual shoot growth was quantified for each tree in both years (n=36). No correlation between the number of fruit per tree and the canopy leaf area alone to the amount of carbon partitioned to annual shoot growth was found in both orchards. However, the carbon partitioned to fruit correlated to the leaf area to fruit ratio, while the amount of carbon partitioned to the annual shoot growth was only correlated to the leaf area to fruit ratio in the young orchard. The inter-tree variability in shoot properties has been described. Nevertheless, it was found that the leaf area to fruit ratio is a weak indicator for shoot properties in apple trees, especially in the mature orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding community-level microbial dynamics provides more holistic insight into the nature of pathogen infection and biocontrol in fruits and vegetables. We investigated the impact of preharvest sprays of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG, 0.25 g L−1), an inhibitor of ethylene production of fruit, to assess the association between ethylene-mediated ripening and the microbiome at harvest and during storage. 'NY1' (Snapdragon®) apples were sprayed on the tree two weeks before first harvest and the microbiome of the fruit was assessed at harvest and at one-week intervals across four weeks. Fruit from harvests 1 and 4 were stored in air at 3 °C for up to 6 months. The bacterial communities changed over harvest time while fungal communities were affected by AVG treatment. In addition, both harvest time and AVG, as well as storage time, were associated with bacterial and fungal variation after 2–6 months of storage. Postharvest fungal microbiomes showed consistent responses to variations in fruit maturation, with the microbial communities of AVG-treated apples being similar to those of early harvested apples. Fungal microbiome variation was linked to the soluble solids concentration and I AD , revealing further links between microbial dynamics and apple quality. Bacterial shifts that occurred from harvest to 6 months of storage were characterized by metagenome changes that resulted in a lower abundance of biofilm formation pathways after cold storage, which may limit the ability of these bacterial communities to block colonization by fungal pathogens. These findings advance our understanding of how the microbiome is connected to fruit quality and functional metagenomics related to biocontrol. • Microbiome responses to ethylene dynamics were examined in Snapdragon® apples. • Harvest time, storage time, and AVG were associated with microbiome variation. • Early maturity apples (AVG-treated or early harvest) showed consistent microbiomes. • Late-storage bacteria have decreased abundance of biofilm formation gene pathways. • These metagenomic analyses of bacterial and fungal communities inform biocontrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown rot (BR) in relation to codling moth damage (CMD) is a key issue in apple production but the impact of these pests has not been assessed jointly. In addition, categorising cultivar reaction to these two pests for sustainable production systems could be essential for improving pest management. Therefore, in a 12-year study, 27 apple cultivars (9 scab-resistant, 9 commercial, and 9 old) were assessed for their reactions to BR in relation to CMD in integrated and organic production systems, and classified into 3 categories (“low”, “medium”, and “high”) based on their season-long BR and CMD incidences. Then the 12-year temporal BR and CMD progresses in each category were analysed by fitting three-parameter logistic functions to process data and then by deriving 5 model variables for BR and CMD incidences. Here, we showed BR-CMD relationships in both production systems, which indicated that final BR and CMD incidences were significantly higher in organic systems. Our results show that season-long BR and CMD incidences were “low” for most resistant cultivars, and “medium” or “high” for most commercial and old ones. The area under the disease and pest progress curves indicated consistent differences among all categories in both production systems; and they were used to differentiate cultivar reactions to BR and CMD. Based on these categories and BR-CMD relationships, here we developed a new brown rot and codling moth forecasting and management strategy (BRCM-FMS). BRCM-FMS and general pest management programme (GPMP) were then compared in an additional 4-year study. This was the first study to show that the BRCM-FMS reduced annual spray applications by 21.4–41.7% in integrated and 12.5–31.3% in organic production system compared to GPMP. Disease incidences in the two programmes were similar in all years, production systems and classification categories. Less sprays and similar disease incidences provide economic and environmental benefits for growers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Sugar content is an important determinant of fruit sweetness, but details on the complex molecular mechanism underlying fruit sugar accumulation remain scarce. Here, we report the role of sucrose transporter (SUT) family in regulating fruit sugar accumulation in apple. Results Gene-tagged markers were developed to conduct candidate gene-based association study, and an SUT4 member MdSUT4.1 was found to be significantly associated with fruit sugar accumulation. MdSUT4.1 encodes a tonoplast localized protein and its expression level had a negative correlation with fruit sugar content. Overexpression of MdSUT4.1 in strawberry and apple callus had an overall negative impact on sugar accumulation, suggesting that it functions to remobilize sugar out of the vacuole. In addition, MdSUT4.1 is located on chromosomal region harboring a previously reported QTL for sugar content, suggesting that it is a candidate gene for fruit sugar accumulation in apple. Conclusions MdSUT4.1 is involved in the regulation of fruit sugar accumulation in apple. This study is not only helpful for understanding the complex mechanism of fruit sugar accumulation, but it also provides molecular tools for genetic improvement of fruit quality in breeding programs of apple.

This study aimed to analyze the most important apple vitamin, L-ascorbic acid (AsA), and the most abundant fat-soluble one, α-tocopherol, in the pulp of 24 cultivars from harvest season 2010 and in six cultivars collected over three consecutive years (2008–2010). All cultivars were grown and stored under identical conditions and identified as ‘true to type’ by molecular genetic tools. The two vitamins were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), involving two rapid methods with excellent recovery, linearity, precision, and sensitivity. Results showed an intriguing diversity of AsA contents and, to a lesser extent, of α-tocopherol in biological replicates, between cultivars and harvest years. Nevertheless, cultivar-specific relative vitamin contents can be deduced from this study. Among the 24 cultivars, a minimum AsA content of 0.43 ± 0.13 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) and a maximum of 6.22 ± 1.06 mg/100 g FW have been found in ‘Gala’ and ‘Freiherr von Berlepsch,’ respectively. α-tocopherol ranged from 0.13 ± 0.02 mg/100 g FW to 0.33 ± 0.04 mg/100 g FW for ‘Freiherr von Berlepsch’ and ‘Brixner Plattling,’ respectively. The results of the present study suggest a potential of some old cultivars as a component of a healthy, vitamin-rich diet.

Botrytis cinerea is the causal agent of grey mould rot of apples. The efficacy of biofumigation with thyme (Thymus vulgaris), savoury (Satureja montana), and basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oils (EOs) at 1%, 0.5%, and 0.1% concentrations were tested against B. cinerea. In vitro, the results showed 100% growth inhibition at 1% concentration for all oils. Subsequent biofumigation experiments on apples of cultivar ‘Opal’ with 1% EOs showed that, after 60 d storage, thyme and savoury EOs significantly reduced grey mould rot incidence (average incidence 2% for both treatments) compared to the control (7%). Analyses of quality indicated slightly higher fruit firmness for 1% thyme at 30 d and slightly higher titratable acidity for 1% thyme and savoury at 60 d. Sampling of the atmosphere inside the cabinets was performed to characterize and quantify the volatile components of EOs released through biofumigation. Though thymol and p-cymene were the main components of thyme EO, the antimicrobial activity was mainly due to the presence of thymol and, to a lower extent, of carvacrol. In savoury EO, carvacrol and p-cymene were the main components, whereas in basil EO, linalool and estragole were mainly present. Metabarcoding analyses showed that the epiphytic microbiome had higher richness and evenness compared to their endophytic counterpart. By the end of shelf-life, treatments with thyme EO reduced B. cinerea abundance compared to the inoculated control for both endophytes (from 36.5% to 1.5%) and epiphytes (from 7.0% to 0.7%), while favouring a significant increase in Penicillium species both in endophytes (from 0.2% to 21.5%) and epiphytes (from 0.5% to 18.6%). Results indicate that thyme EO (1%) and savoury EO (1%) are equally effective in hampering grey mould rot development in vivo.

Fire blight of apples (Erwinia amylovora) can be a serious disease depending on production area and year. Bloom is the most frequent starting point for infection and the primary focus for sprays which can prevent infection, or of growth regulators such as prohexadione-Ca (ProCa) to limit spread. Because of the sporadic cases, many growers opt to forego bloom sprays when disease pressure is low. When symptoms do appear, quickly pruning out affected branches is currently the most effective control measure. Our goal was to determine if ProCa applied when symptoms appear, instead of during bloom when infection risks are predicted, could be used to limit disease spread, and if this would interact with summer symptom removal. The study was carried out in 2018 and 2019 at the IRDA orchard in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Québec. Plots inoculated during bloom were allocated to treatments in which diseased branches were either pruned during summer or only in winter, and trees sprayed with ProCa starting at bloom, when symptoms appeared, or not. Potential for disease progression was assessed by inoculating shoots and rating them for disease severity and ooze production. Significantly less wood was removed from trees pruned during the summer as opposed to winter, but total yield was reduced. ProCa had no effect on the amount of dead wood pruned, but still reduced disease severity. We found that ProCa reduced ooze on inoculated shoots and that post symptom timing was as effective as the bloom spray. Delaying sprays until symptoms appear could become an alternative strategy to reduce summer spread of fire blight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this research was to evaluate resistance of apple rootstocks to late winter deacclimation during a 2-day exposure to warm temperatures in Maine. We measured the cold temperature tolerance of xylem, phloem, and cambium from 0 to 240 ℃ in 1- and 2-year-old shoot pieces from apple rootstock cultivars and advanced selections ‘M.9 T337’ (M.9), ‘M.7 EMLA’ (M.7), ‘Budagovsky 9’ (B.9), ‘Geneva VR 41’ (G.41), ‘Geneva 30’ (G.30), ‘Geneva 935’ (G.935), ‘Geneva 814’ (G.814), G.4013, G.5257, and Vineland 6 (V.6) after a 2-day exposure to warm (22 ℃) or cold (2 to 4 ℃) temperatures. Injury was measured on a 0 to 10 rating scale based on percentage of discolored cross-sectional xylem and phloem, and cambial length and circumference with brown discoloration, with 0 indicating no browning and 10 indicating browning in the entire tissue. Injury was also measured as intensity of browning on a scale of 0 (no browning) to 5 (dark brown to black). The weighted averages of the two ratings were used to calculate an index of browning. Genotypic variation occurred in the degree of deacclimation, which ranged from none to as much as 15 ℃ loss in hardiness. Two genotypes, ‘G.41’ and ‘M.9’, showed little change in hardiness in both years they were tested. Two genotypes, G.4013 and ‘G.814’, lost substantial hardiness in both years and may be vulnerable to late winter freeze-thaw events, but were among the hardiest before deacclimation. ‘G.935’ and G.5257 showed a small loss of hardiness, whereas ‘B.9’ lost hardiness in the cambium, but not the xylem, and V.6 lost hardiness after warm exposure, but showed almost no injury at temperatures as cold as ―35 ℃. The loss of hardiness of these four genotypes that were tested in only one year should be verified with additional testing because of the potential for yearly variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origin of a food product is becoming increasingly important for consumers. One promising technique to prove the origin of agricultural products is the analysis of the strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotope ratio. In crops, this ratio is generally related to the soil-geological features of the corresponding growing area. The present contribution summarizes some aspects of the 87Sr/86Sr ratio and its possible use as a geographical tracer for apples, investigated during a 3-year project. In a first experiment, we investigated the influence of agricultural practices and their external addition of strontium on the isotope ratio of apple trees under greenhouse conditions. The trees adapted slowly their 87Sr/86Sr ratio to that of the soil. The addition of tap water and fertilizers modestly influenced the 87Sr/86Sr ratio of the trees. In a second experiment, we investigated the 87Sr/86Sr ratio variability in terms of intra-part (difference between sub-samples of the same plant organ within a single tree), intra-tree (difference among the plant organs of the same tree) and inter-tree (differences between each plant-organ of different trees in the same orchard) variabilities and its relationship with the soil isotope ratio. The study was conducted in two orchards in South Tyrol. The intra-part and intra-tree 87Sr/86Sr ratio in both orchards showed a homogeneous distribution, but inter-tree we observed significant differences between the two orchards. As a third experiment, we extended our analysis to 41 orchards, distributed in North Italy. The 87Sr/86Sr ratio of apples with geographical indication were compared with those from non-protected districts. In both cases, the isotope ratio of the apples was highly correlated with the soil ratio of the corresponding orchard. However, areas having similar geological features were also characterized by similar ratios, and so a clear separation of all areas was not possible. This confirms the potential of the 87Sr/86Sr ratio as geographical tracer, but future studies should include other parameters, to improve the classification rate of agricultural products according to their place of origin.

In this study, effects of foliar Zn sprays at different periods on yield, fruit quality attributes, bioactive compounds and micro-macro elements of 'Granny Smith' (Malus x domestica Borkh.) apples grafted on MM111 rootstocks were investigated. Experimental treatments were arranged as control (without Zn sprays), Zn-1 [Zn sprays 1 month after full bloom (when the fruit had a size of a walnut)], Zn-2 (Zn sprays 1 and 2 months after full bloom) and Zn-3 (Zn sprays 1, 2 and 3 months after full bloom). Experimental trees were sprayed with 0.2% Zn (ZnSO4.7H2O). Compared to control, Zn sprays increased yields. SSC values of Zn-2 and Zn-3 treatments were lower than the control and Zn-1 treatments. The total phenolics and total flavonoids of Zn-treated fruit were lower than the control fruit. The greatest vitamin C and antioxidant activity were obtained from Zn-2 and Zn-3 treatments, respectively. Zn-2 and Zn-3 treatments had greater zinc and phosphorus concentrations than the control treatments and Zn-sprayed fruit had greater nitrogen and potassium concentrations than the control fruit. It was concluded based on present findings that Zn treatments could be used as an effective tool to increase yield, antioxidant activity and mineral elements of 'Granny Smith' apples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the influence of 1-MCP treatment on the fruit quality and flesh browning of 'Red Fuji' apple at shelf life after long-term cold storage. The 'Red Fuji' fruit were stored at 0±0.5 °C for 270 days after treating with 1.0 μL L-1 1-methylcyclopropylene (1-MCP). Fruit quality, browning rate of stem-end flesh, chlorogenic acid content, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity were analyzed at shelf-life under 20±0.5 °C, the expression profile of ethylene receptors (MdERS1), phenylalnine ammonia lyase genes (MdPAL1, MdPAL2), quinate hydroxycinnamoyl/hydrxycinnamoyl CoA shikimate gene (MdHCT3), polyphenol oxidase genes (MdPPO1, MdPPO5) and lipoxygenase gene (MdLOX) were measured by realtime quantitative PCR. 1-MCP treatment improved the fruit storage quality, decreased stem-end flesh tissue browning, and fruit decay. In addition, the fruit respiration rate and ethylene production rate increased at shelflife, but this increase could be inhibited by 1-MCP. The same rule was observed in the changes of chlorogenic acid content and PPO activity, the expression of MdERS1, MdPAL1, MdPPO1 and MdLOX were inhibited by 1-MCP as well in the stem-end flesh. Thus, 1-MCP treatment improves the fruit quality of 'Red Fuji' apple at shelf-life after long-term cold storage, and inhibits the browning of stem-end flesh by decreasing the chlorogenic acid content and PPO activity. MdPAL1, MdHCT3, MdPPO1 and MdLOX participate in the flesh browning progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estonian apples have always been popular in Latvia. At present, ‘Tiina’ is widely grown commercially as well as in home gardens, and ‘Liivika’ is promising for organic and home orchards. A number of new Estonian apple cultivars and hybrids have been screened in 1990–2020. Several new selections by breeder Kalju Kask (Polli) are included in field trials at Institute of Horticulture - ‘Aule’, ‘Kastar’ and KK 201-2 (‘Karlote’) since 2011, ‘Kersti’ since 2014, KK 5-16 (‘Kelin’) with scab resistance gene Rvi6 and KK 2812 since 2015. Their trees were planted on dwarfing rootstock B.9 as one-year-old whips at distances 1.5×4 m, in 3 to 5 replications with 2 or 1 trees. Commercial cultivars ‘Auksis’, ‘Antei’ and ‘Zarya Alatau’ were used as controls. The highest productivity had ‘Aule’ and ‘Kastar’, the best fruit quality - ‘Aule’ and ‘Kelin’. ‘Aule’ has been highly esteemed also by some Latvian farmers. Fruits of ‘Kelin’ had the best storage, which is crucial for a cultivar’s commercial success in Latvia. On the other side, ‘Kersti’ proved to be unsuitable for Latvian conditions, having very strong tree vigour and low yields. ‘Kastar’ showed a high tendency to fruit cracking at calyx, while KK 201-2 and KK 2812 had irregular or low yields. Of newer acquisitions, scab resistant (gene Rvi6) ‘Virve’ and KK 4-11 show good preliminary results and have been propagated for trials on dwarfing rootstocks. Productivity, tree characteristics, fruit quality traits and taste panel evaluation of Estonian apples in Latvia are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chihuahua produce el 66 % de la manzana (Malus x domestica Borkh) a nivel nacional, siendo el cultivar ‘Golden Delicious’ el de mayor superficie plantada. La necesidad de controlar la maduración de la fruta para programar la cosecha, ha condicionado el uso de productos a base de la aminoetoxivinilglicina (AVG), un inhibidor de la síntesis del etileno, y por lo tanto de la maduración de los frutos climatéricos. Este producto es eficaz, pero de alto costo. En este estudio se evaluó la eficiencia de productos alternativos al AVG de menor costo. Se asperjaron manzanos ‘Golden Delicious’ en precosecha durante el ciclo 2008, con los tratamientos: ácido salicílico (AS; 1, 0.1 y 0.01 μM), cobalto (40, 60 y 80 mg Co++·L-1), ácido cítrico (AC; 533 mg·L-1) y AVG (123 mg·L-1) y agua como testigo. Los tratamientos de AS (0.01 y 1.0 μM) y de AC redujeron significativamente la concentración interna de etileno en los frutos, en comparación con el testigo, y a un nivel similar al AVG, con concentraciones de etileno de 0.6, 0.6, 0.4, 1.7 y 0.4 ppm, respectivamente. Los tratamientos con cobalto, a 40 y 80 mg Co++·L-1, retrasaron el pico climatérico en tres semanas. Los tratamientos con AS y cobalto indujeron frutos con color de cáscara más verde y con menor concentración de sólidos solubles, indicando un estado menos avanzado de maduración. Los tratamientos precosecha con AS, AC, y cobalto, representan una herramienta en el control de la maduración de manzanas ‘Golden Delicious’. Abstract Chihuahua produces 66 % of the apple (Malus x domestica Borkh) production in Mexico, being ‘Golden Delicious’ apple cultivar the most widely planted. The need to control fruit maturation in order to schedule harvest has made the use of aminoethoxyvinylglicine (AVG) almost a must, since it is an efficient ethylene synthesis inhibitor, and therefore a retardant of the maturation process in climacteric fruits; however it is an expensive product too. In this trial the effectiveness of alternative products to AVG, at a lower sell price, were evaluated. ‘Golden Delicious’ apple trees were sprayed before harvest during the 2008 season with: salicylic acid (AS; 1.0, 0.1 and 0.01 μM), cobalt (40, 60 and 80 mg Co++·L-1), citric acid (AC; 533 mg L-1), AVG (123 mg·L-1) and water as control. The treatments with AS (0.01 and 1.0 μM) and with AC reduced the internal concentration of ethylene in the fruit respect to control, and to a similar level as AVG did it, with internal ethylene concentration of 0.6, 0.6, 0.4, 1.7 and 0.4 ppm, respectively. Treatments with cobalt at 40 and 80 mg Co++·L-1 delayed in three weeks the climacteric peak. AS and cobalt produced fruits with greener peel and lower level of soluble solids, indicating a less advanced maturation stage. Therefore, the preharvest treatments with AS, AC and cobalt offer to growers a tool to control the maturation of ‘Golden Delicious’ apple fruits. Keywords: Malus x domestica, citric acid, salicylic acid, cobalt.

The development of tree architecture results from shoot growth and branching, but their relationship is still not fully understood. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of parent shoot growth characteristics on branching patterns in terms of polycyclism, growth duration (GD), and growth period (GP), considering apple tree as a case study. Weekly shoot growth records were collected from 227 shoots during their second year of growth and the resulting branching patterns from the following year. The branching patterns were compared between the different shoot categories, using hidden semi-Markov models. Our results showed that the branching pattern was similar in bicyclic and monocyclic shoots with a long GD. The number of floral laterals, and the frequency and length of the floral zones, increased with GD. Moreover, a long GD led to strong acrotony, due to the high occurrence of a vegetative zone with long laterals in the distal position of the shoot. In bicyclic shoots, an early GP of the second GU led to more frequent and longer floral zones than a late GP. Therefore, the GD was the strongest driver of the branching pattern, and GP modulated the flowering capacity. The main similarities among shoot categories resulted from the existence of latent buds and floral zones associated with growth cessation periods. Even though flowering was more abundant during the early GP, the positions of floral zones indicated that induction in axillary meristems can also occur late in the season. This study provides new knowledge regarding the relationships between the dynamics of parent shoot growth and axillary meristem fates, with key consequences on flowering abundance and positions.

The development of tree architecture results from shoot growth and branching, but their relationship is still not fully understood. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of parent shoot growth characteristics on branching patterns in terms of polycyclism, growth duration (GD), and growth period (GP), considering apple tree as a case study. Weekly shoot growth records were collected from 227 shoots during their second year of growth and the resulting branching patterns from the following year. The branching patterns were compared between the different shoot categories, using hidden semi-Markov models. Our results showed that the branching pattern was similar in bicyclic and monocyclic shoots with a long GD. The number of floral laterals, and the frequency and length of the floral zones, increased with GD. Moreover, a long GD led to strong acrotony, due to the high occurrence of a vegetative zone with long laterals in the distal position of the shoot. In bicyclic shoots, an early GP of the second GU led to more frequent and longer floral zones than a late GP. Therefore, the GD was the strongest driver of the branching pattern, and GP modulated the flowering capacity. The main similarities among shoot categories resulted from the existence of latent buds and floral zones associated with growth cessation periods. Even though flowering was more abundant during the early GP, the positions of floral zones indicated that induction in axillary meristems can also occur late in the season. This study provides new knowledge regarding the relationships between the dynamics of parent shoot growth and axillary meristem fates, with key consequences on flowering abundance and positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Apples (Malus spp.) accumulate significant quantities of the dihydrochalcone glycoside, phloridzin, whilst pears (Pyrus spp.) do not. To explain this difference, we hypothesized that a metabolic bottleneck in the phenylpropanoid pathway might exist in apple. Expression analysis indicated that transcript levels of early phenylpropanoid pathway genes in apple and pear leaves were similar, except for chalcone isomerase (CHI), which was much lower in apple. Apples also showed very low CHI activity compared with pear. To relieve the bottleneck at CHI, transgenic apple plants overexpressing the Arabidopsis AtCHI gene were produced. Unlike other transgenic apples where phenylpropanoid flux was manipulated, AtCHI overexpression (CHIox) plants were phenotypically indistinguishable from wild‐type, except for an increase in red pigmentation in expanding leaves. CHIox plants accumulated slightly increased levels of flavanols and flavan‐3‐ols in the leaves, but the major change was a 2.8‐ to 19‐fold drop in phloridzin concentrations compared with wild‐type. The impact of these phytochemical changes on insect preference was studied using a two‐choice leaf assay with the polyphagous apple pest, the two‐spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch). Transgenic CHIox leaves were more susceptible to herbivory, an effect that could be reversed (complemented) by application of phloridzin to transgenic leaves. Taken together, these findings shed new light on phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in apple and suggest a new physiological role for phloridzin as an antifeedant in leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin C is a crucial antioxidant and cofactor for both plants and humans. Apple fruits generally contain low levels of vitamin C, making vitamin C content an interesting trait for apple crop improvement. With the aim of breeding high vitamin C apple cultivars it is important to get an insight in the natural biodiversity of vitamin C content in apple fruits. In this study, quantification of ascorbic acid (AsA), dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), and total AsA (AsA + DHA) in apple pulp of 79 apple accessions at harvest revealed significant variation, indicating a large genetic biodiversity. High density genotyping using an 8 K SNP array identified 21 elite and 58 local cultivars in this germplasm, with local accessions showing similar levels of total AsA but higher amounts of DHA compared to elite varieties. Out of the 79 apple cultivars screened, ten genotypes with either the highest or the lowest concentration of total AsA at harvest were used for monitoring vitamin C dynamics during fruit development and storage. For all these cultivars, the AsA/DHA ratio in both apple pulp and peel increased throughout fruit development, whereas the AsA/DHA balance always shifted towards the oxidized form during storage and shelf life, putatively reflecting an abiotic stress response. Importantly, at any point during apple fruit development and storage, the apple peel contained a higher level of vitamin C compared to the pulp, most likely because of its direct exposure to abiotic and biotic stresses. Image 1 • Apple accessions exhibit a large biodiversity in fruit vitamin C levels. • There is no correlation between harvest date and vitamin C content in apple fruits. • Old and currently commercial cultivars have similar vitamin C levels in the fruit. • Conservation of vitamin C during fruit development and storage is cultivar-dependent. • Apple vitamin C content is mainly determined by the genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sugar content is an important determinant of fruit sweetness, but details on the complex molecular mechanism underlying fruit sugar accumulation remain scarce. Here, we report the role of sucrose transporter (SUT) family in regulating fruit sugar accumulation in apple. Results: Gene-tagged markers were developed to conduct candidate gene-based association study, and an SUT4 member MdSUT4.1 was found to be significantly associated with fruit sugar accumulation. MdSUT4.1 encodes a tonoplast localized protein and its expression level had a negative correlation with fruit sugar content. Overexpression of MdSUT4.1 in strawberry and apple callus had an overall negative impact on sugar accumulation, suggesting that it functions to remobilize sugar out of the vacuole. In addition, MdSUT4.1 is located on chromosomal region harboring a previously reported QTL for sugar content, suggesting that it is a candidate gene for fruit sugar accumulation in apple. Conclusions: MdSUT4.1 is involved in the regulation of fruit sugar accumulation in apple. This study is not only helpful for understanding the complex mechanism of fruit sugar accumulation, but it also provides molecular tools for genetic improvement of fruit quality in breeding programs of apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blossom thinning can confer significant benefits to apple growers, including increased fruit size and annual bearing. However, current blossom thinning practices can damage spur leaves and/or fruit. We evaluated the use of short duration forced heated air treatments [thermal shock (TS)] as a blossom thinning strategy for 'York Imperial'. Using a variable-temperature heat gun, TS treatments were applied to solitary blossoms 24 hours after pollination. Effects of output temperature (five levels) and treatment duration (four levels) were evaluated using a completely randomized design with a factorial treatment structure. Short duration treatments (0.5 and 1.0 seconds) were ineffective for arresting pollen tube growth in vivo. TS temperature required to inhibit stylar pollen tube growth was inconsistent across years. In 2014, TS temperatures ≥56 °C inhibited pollen tubes from reaching the style base at 2.0 and 4.0 second durations. However, in 2015, TS temperatures ≥81 °C at 4.0 seconds prevented pollen tubes from reaching the style base. Inconsistent effects of TS across years were attributed to treatments being applied too late due to optimal conditions for pollen tube growth during the intervening 24-hour period after pollination. Excessive injury to spur leaf tissue was observed at temperatures higher than 84 °C and 70 °C (2.0 and 4.0 seconds, respectively). Pollen tube growth was reduced or arrested at temperature and duration combinations that caused minimal visible injury to spur leaves. Identifying and exploiting structural differences between apple blossoms and vegetative spur leaves may provide insight for the future development of TS or other attempts at developing selective thinning technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the most important apple vitamin, L-ascorbic acid (AsA), and the most abundant fat-soluble one, a-tocopherol, in the pulp of 24 cultivars from harvest season 2010 and in six cultivars collected over three consecutive years (2008-2010). All cultivars were grown and stored under identical conditions and identified as 'true to type' by molecular genetic tools. The two vitamins were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), involving two rapid methods with excellent recovery, linearity, precision, and sensitivity. Results showed an intriguing diversity of AsA contents and, to a lesser extent, of α-tocopherol in biological replicates, between cultivars and harvest years. Nevertheless, cultivar-specific relative vitamin contents can be deduced from this study. Among the 24 cultivars, a minimum AsA content of 0.43 ± 0.13 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW) and a maximum of 6.22 ± 1.06 mg/100 g FW have been found in 'Gala' and 'Freiherr von Berlepsch,' respectively. a-tocopherol ranged from 0.13 ± 0.02 mg/100 g FW to 0.33 ± 0.04 mg/100 g FW for 'Freiherr von Berlepsch' and 'Brixner Plattling,' respectively. The results of the present study suggest a potential of some old cultivars as a component of a healthy, vitamin-rich diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Horticulture / Kertgazdaság is the property of Herman Otto Intezet Nonprofit Kft. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Some traditional varieties had high pollen quality and might be used as pollinators. • Two varieties showed a certain degree of self-compatibility. • S -allele composition and frequency were unique and S 26 frequency was exceptional. • S 26 advocates cautious pollinator choice to avoid incompatibility with crabapples. • The presence of an unpublished S -allele, S 60 , is reported (GenBank OP547868.1). Cider regions conserve a broad diversity of traditional cultivars for which knowledge has hardly evolved. Key aspects of their reproductive biology are barely known, hindering improvement in orchard management and resulting in highly variable yields. In this study, we characterized key aspects of the reproductive biology of some traditional apple cultivars from the Basque-style cider-producing area in northern Spain (Basque Country and Navarre). We tested for pollen quality, self-compatibility, and cross-compatibility (S -genotyping). The pollen quality was good except for Urtebete, Errezila, Reineta Encarnada, and triploid varieties. Self-pollination results confirm the need for pollinators, as only Moko and Txalaka showed certain self-compatibility. Regarding S -genotyping, the population proved very singular, with an atypically high frequency of S 26 , a frequent allele within crabapples, and the appearance of a novel unpublished allele (S 60). The knowledge generated for this variety pool will contribute to a better choice of suitable pollinators, preventing the use of popular crabapple varieties that are demonstrated to be partly incompatible with them, and will lead to an increase in potential yields in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Fungal plant pathogens belonging to the genus Venturia cause damaging scab diseases of members of the Rosaceae. In terms of economic impact, the most important of these are V. inaequalis, which infects apple, and V. pirina, which is a pathogen of European pear. Given that Venturia fungi colonise the sub-cuticular space without penetrating plant cells, it is assumed that effectors that contribute to virulence and determination of host range will be secreted into this plant-pathogen interface. Thus the predicted secretomes of a range of isolates of Venturia with distinct host-ranges were interrogated to reveal putative proteins involved in virulence and pathogenicity. Results Genomes of Venturia pirina (one European pear scab isolate) and Venturia inaequalis (three apple scab, and one loquat scab, isolates) were sequenced and the predicted secretomes of each isolate identified. RNA-Seq was conducted on the apple-specific V. inaequalis isolate Vi1 (in vitro and infected apple leaves) to highlight virulence and pathogenicity components of the secretome. Genes encoding over 600 small secreted proteins (candidate effectors) were identified, most of which are novel to Venturia, with expansion of putative effector families a feature of the genus. Numerous genes with similarity to Leptosphaeria maculans AvrLm6 and the Verticillium spp. Ave1 were identified. Candidates for avirulence effectors with cognate resistance genes involved in race-cultivar specificity were identified, as were putative proteins involved in host-species determination. Candidate effectors were found, on average, to be in regions of relatively low gene-density and in closer proximity to repeats (e.g. transposable elements), compared with core eukaryotic genes. Conclusions Comparative secretomics has revealed candidate effectors from Venturia fungal plant pathogens that attack pome fruit. Effectors that are putative determinants of host range were identified; both those that may be involved in race-cultivar and host-species specificity. Since many of the effector candidates are in close proximity to repetitive sequences this may point to a possible mechanism for the effector gene family expansion observed and a route to diversification via transposition and repeat-induced point mutation.