Work

Lignin Deposition Is Associated with Impaired Calcium and Boron Distribution in Pear Cork Spot Disorder

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cork spot disorder is a common problem affecting Asian pears. In poorly managed orchards, the incidence rate can reach up to 80%. Irregular brown spots appear on the surface of infected fruit, affecting fruit quality. However, we still do not fully understand why this disorder happens. Using ‘Cangxi Pear’ and its asymptomatic line Cangxi 6-2 (CP6-2), we evaluated nine trees for each of the two cultivars (three biological replicates, n = 3) at six developmental stages (60–160 days after bloom). Techniques including vascular bundle staining, elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were employed. The development of cork spot disorder was a dynamic process positively correlated with mature fruit weight. Lignin and cellulose accumulation was associated with vascular bundle disruption and with reduced calcium (Ca) and boron (B) transport. Deficiency of these elements—crucial for maintaining cell structure—within the fruit was associated with cork spot development. Statistical analysis used two-way ANOVA with Tukey’s HSD test (p < 0.05). This study provides new insights into the etiology of cork spot disorder in pears.

Source: Horticulturae

DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae12070862

Authors: Guolin Wang, Shangyun Li, Yunting Zhang, Yong Zhang

Institution: Sichuan Agricultural University

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: $2,654