Work

Evaluate the impact of temperature fluctuations during transportation on the quality of Chinese cherry: Color transformation and cell wall polysaccharide evolution

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Temperature fluctuations during cold chain transportation of Chinese cherry serve as a critical stress factor. This study systematically elucidates both the immediate and persistent physiological effects of temperature fluctuations on Chinese cherry quality. Compared with constant storage at 5°C, three consecutive temperature fluctuations between 5 and 10°C induced progressive and significant changes in fruit phenotypic traits. At the end of temperature fluctuations (Day 4), Chinese cherry showed 135.22% higher ΔE and 9.02% lower firmness versus 5°C isothermal controls. Post-storage damage reached 78-93% of that under constant 10°C conditions. The observed effects primarily stem from temperature fluctuations triggering rapid accumulation of malondialdehyde, a key cell membrane oxidation byproduct, along with elevated ATP levels, which in turn enhance the activities of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase to promote anthocyanin synthesis and phenolic oxidation, thereby inducing color transformation. Additionally, the specific upregulation of pectin metabolism-related genes (cCPG1-3 and cCPME3-4) enhanced polygalacturonase and pectin methylesterase activities, accelerating pectin demethylesterification and driving nanoscale structural transitions in pectin polymers. The study comprehensively demonstrates the immediate and persistent effects of temperature fluctuations on color transformation and softening-related quality deterioration in Chinese cherry fruits, providing a scientific foundation for developing precision cold-chain logistics strategies.

Source: LWT

DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2025.118652

Authors: Chun Hua, Yuanwei Zhang, Xinru Qiu, Rui Lu, Jiahao Li, Ying Xin

Institution: Henan University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Management

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,240