Search Results (99)

B-box (BBX) transcription factors are critical regulators of light-mediated anthocyanin biosynthesis, influencing peel coloration in plants. To explore their role in red mango cultivars, we identified 32 BBX genes (MiBBX1–MiBBX32) in the mango (Mangifera indica L.) genome using a genome-wide analysis. Phylogenetic and structural analyses classified these genes into five subfamilies based on conserved domains. A collinearity analysis revealed segmental duplication as the primary mechanism of MiBBX gene family expansion, with purifying selection shaping their evolution. A promoter analysis identified numerous light- and hormone-responsive cis-elements, indicating regulatory roles in the light and hormonal signaling pathways. Expression profiling in the ‘Sensation’ cultivar revealed organ-specific patterns, with several MiBBX genes showing higher expression in the peel than in the flesh. Many of these genes also consistently exhibited elevated expression in the peel of red-skinned cultivars (‘Sensation’ and ‘Guifei’) compared to yellow and green cultivars, suggesting their role in red peel pigmentation. Furthermore, postharvest light treatment of ‘Hongmang No. 6’ fruit significantly upregulated multiple MiBBX genes, suggesting their involvement in light-induced anthocyanin accumulation in red mango peel. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms governing light-regulated peel coloration in mango and establish a foundation for functional studies of MiBBX genes in fruit pigmentation. Full article

Postharvest fungal diseases are a major cause of fruit spoilage and economic losses, particularly in perishable commodities like strawberries. In this study, a plant-derived Weissella paramesenteroides strain R2 was isolated from the mango fruit surface and evaluated for its antifungal potential. Dual-culture assays revealed the strong inhibitory activity of strain R2 against key postharvest pathogens, including Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and Fusarium oxysporum. Notably, cell-free fermentation broth exhibited no antifungal activity, whereas the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by R2 significantly suppressed fungal growth in sealed plate assays. GC-MS analysis identified 84 VOCs, with pyrazines as the dominant group. Three major compounds, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, and 2-furanmethanol, were validated for their antifungal activity. The application of R2 VOCs in strawberry preservation significantly reduced disease incidence and severity during storage. These findings highlight W. paramesenteroides R2 as a promising, food-safe biocontrol agent for postharvest disease management via VOC-mediated mechanisms. Full article

Mango, as an important economic crop in tropical and subtropical regions, suffers from chilling injuries caused by postharvest low-temperature storage, which seriously affect its quality and economic benefits. Traditional detection methods have limitations such as low efficiency and strong destructiveness. This study designs and implements a flexible visible light spectral sensing system based on visible light spectral sensing technology and low-cost environmentally friendly flexible circuit technology. The system is structured based on a perception-analysis-warning-processing framework, utilizing laser-induced graphene electroplated copper integrated with laser etching technology for hardware fabrication, and developing corresponding data acquisition and processing functionalities. Taking Yunnan Yumang as the research object, a three-level chilling injury label dataset was established. After Z-Score standardization processing, the prediction accuracy of the SVM (Support Vector Machine) model reached 95.5%. The system has a power consumption of 230 mW at 4.5 V power supply, a battery life of more than 130 days, stable signal transmission, and a monitoring interface integrating multiple functions, which can provide real-time warning and intervention, thus offering an efficient and intelligent solution for chilling injury monitoring in mango cold chain storage. Full article

A method based on Vis-NIR spectroscopy and machine learning-based modeling for non-destructive detection of the internal disorders of black flesh, spongy tissue, jelly seed, and soft nose in mango fruit was developed using the vis-NIR spectra of intact mango fruit of three cultivars sourced from three orchards in each of the two seasons, with spectra collected both at harvest and after storage. After spectra were acquired of the stored fruit, the fruit cheeks were cut longitudinally to allow visual assessment of the incidence of the internal disorders. Five models were evaluated: two tree-based algorithms (J48 and random forest), one neural network (multilayer perceptron, MLP), and two SVM training algorithms (sequential minimal optimization, SMO, and LibSVM). The models were evaluated using a tenfold cross-validation approach. Non-destructive discrimination of health from all disordered and healthy fruit from fruit with specific disorders was achieved with an accuracy ranging from 72.3 to 97.0% when using spectra collected at harvest and 63.7 to 96.2% when using spectra collected after ripening. No one machine learning algorithm out-performed other methods—for spectra collected at harvest, the highest discrimination accuracy was achieved with RF and MLP for black flesh, J48 for spongy tissue, and LibSVM for soft nose and jelly seed. For spectra collected of stored fruit, the highest discrimination accuracy was achieved with SMO for jelly seed and RF for soft nose. A recommendation is made for the consideration of ensemble models in future. The ability to predict the development of the disorder using spectra of at-harvest fruit offers the potential to guide postharvest practices and reduce incidence of internal disorders in mangoes. Full article

Botryosphaeriaceae species were recently found to be responsible for heavy mango crop losses worldwide. In 2020, mango fruit samples showing fruit decay symptoms were collected from Glenn, Kent, Irwin, Palmer, Brokaw 2, and Gomera 3 accessions in 4 orchards located in Sicily (Italy). A molecular analysis of the ITS and tub2 regions performed on 41 representative isolates allowed for the identification of mainly Neofusicoccum parvum and occasionally Botryosphaeria dothidea (1/41) as the causal agents of fruit decay. Pathogenicity proofs were satisfied for both fungal pathogens. Ripe and unripe Gomera 3 mango fruits were used to compare the virulence among the N. parvum isolates. Postharvest experiments performed on Gomera 3 fruits and by using different biocontrol agents (BCAs) showed that the performance of treatments in reducing fruit decay depends on N. parvum virulence. The data show that unregistered Wickerhamomyces anomalus WA-2 and Pichia kluyveri PK-3, followed by the trade bioformulate Serenade™ (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713), were the most effective in managing mango fruit rot. This paper shows, for the first time, the potential of different BCAs, including Trichoderma spp., for the controlling of postharvest decay caused by N. parvum on mango fruits. Full article

Converting pesticides into ionic liquids by designing counterions can modulate their physicochemical properties, thus improving their efficacy and environmental safety. In this study, eight prochloraz-based ionic liquids (PILs) were synthesized using natural organic acids, and their physicochemical properties, toxicity, antifungal activity, and efficacy in postharvest mango preservation were evaluated. The results showed that the physicochemical properties of propiconazole, including water solubility, logK_ow, surface activity, and light stability, could be adjusted by selecting counterions with varying structures. These properties were correlated with toxicity to zebrafish embryos and antifungal activity against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Notably, except for the benzoate PIL, the photostability of the other seven PILs was enhanced under UV irradiation, with the cinnamate PIL exhibiting a half-life 2.28 times longer than prochloraz. Spectral analysis indicated that the anions influenced photostability by shielding or interacting with the cations. Furthermore, the three selected PILs improved pesticide deposition on the mango surface during preservation, and the salicylate PIL enhanced pesticide penetration into the fruit, potentially contributing to its therapeutic activity. In conclusion, the ionic liquid strategy offers an effective method to modify pesticide properties, improve photostability, reduce losses, and optimize pesticide formulation. Full article

Tephritid fruit flies are serious pests of Ghana’s numerous economically important fruits and vegetables. Their damages include rotting, premature ripening, and dropping of fruits, which lead to severe production losses, reduction in export volumes, trade restrictions, and other health implications when infested fruits are consumed. Due to the activities of these pests, less than 10% of fruits (especially mango) and vegetables produced are exported, and more than 60% of them end up in waste yearly. With current regulatory measures, Ghana has made significant progress in managing fruit flies, especially after the European Union (EU) ban in 2015. However, the pests remain problematic in the sub-region. A more coordinated nationwide approach and investments in postharvest treatment facilities are anticipated to help reduce pest populations, increase trading volumes and incomes, increase access to other markets, including the United States, and boost Ghana’s economy. It is estimated that for every US$1 invested in managing fruit flies, the return on investment is US$93. Full article

Mango fruits are susceptible to cold stress under prolonged storage. Melatonin (MT) is a phytohormone well known for enhancing the tolerance and overall quality of various tropical and subtropical fruits during cold storage. This study investigated the effects of MT treatment on the postharvest quality of mango fruits during prolonged cold storage. Mangoes were treated with different concentrations of MT (1.0 mM (T1), 1.5 mM (T2), 2.0 mM (T3), and 2.5 mM (T4)) and stored for 45 days under cold conditions (15 °C and 90% relative humidity). Control fruits had no MT treatments. Various physicochemical, phytochemical, antioxidant, and enzymatic activities were monitored every 5 days throughout the storage period. MT treatment significantly reduced the weight loss and decay rates compared to control samples, with T3 and T4 treatments showing superior effectiveness. Due to severe decay in the control samples, the storage period was terminated on day 25, whereas the MT treatment protected the mango fruits and allowed for the completion of all 45 days of storage. The MT treatments effectively maintained color characteristics, reduced respiration rates, and suppressed ethylene production in mango fruits compared to the control samples. Higher MT concentrations preserved firmness and controlled malondialdehyde accumulation (p < 0.05). Chemical properties, including the starch content, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity, were better maintained in MT-treated fruits. The treatments also enhanced the retention of phytochemicals (ascorbic acid, total phenolic, and total flavonoid contents) and improved antioxidant activities against DPPH and ABTS radicals. Furthermore, MT treatment effectively regulated the activities of browning-related enzymes (polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD)), cell wall-degrading enzymes (polygalacturonase (PG), pectin methylesterase (PME), and lipoxygenase (LOX)), and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX)). The results demonstrate that MT treatment, particularly at higher concentrations (T3 and T4), effectively extends the storage life and maintains the quality of mango fruits during prolonged cold storage. Full article

For this article, we evaluated whether wounds would affect the pathogenicity and virulence of Colletotrichum sp. isolates on Musa spp. banana cultivars. We further assessed the potential of cross-colonization with other fruit species and investigated the molecular and phylogenetic characterization of the most virulent isolates. Firstly, we collected dwarf bananas showing anthracnose symptoms from commercial markets in the city of Gurupi, Tocantins State, Brazil, and isolated Colletotrichum sp. under controlled conditions prior to identification. The virulence was assessed on wounded and unwounded banana fruits, identifying the most virulent isolate by exposure tests on fruits of the “prata”, “maçã”, “marmelo”, and “terra” banana cultivars. We also subjected specimens of mango (Mangifera indica), papaya (Carica papaya), and apple (Malus domestica) fruits to the exposure tests. Our results indicated that pathogenicity varies with the isolate (with C2, C8, and C10 as the most virulent), fruit condition (wounded fruits are the most susceptible), and cultivars (terra, marmela, and maça are the most susceptible). All isolates were more virulent on wounded bananas, while those on unwounded ones showed lower virulence. Among the banana cultivars, “prata” fruits were the most susceptible, regardless of wounding. Additionally, Colletotrichum isolates from dwarf bananas were pathogenic to mango, papaya, and apple fruits. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that the most virulent isolates belong to the species C. musae. Collectively, our findings reinforce the relevance of minimizing post-harvest wounds on banana fruits and highlight the risks of cross-infection when storing bananas alongside other fruit species. Full article

Nitrogen (N) is vital for mango yield and fruit quality, but finding the optimal amount is crucial to avoid the ‘stay green’ problem, which diminishes both fruit quality and profitability. This study aimed to assess the impact of N levels on the fruit quality and yield of ‘Kensington Pride’ (‘KP’) mangoes and determine the amount of N that triggers the ‘stay green’ effect in fruit. A field trial was conducted in a commercial orchard with N treatments (0, 12.5, 25, and 50 kg ha⁻¹) and four replications during the 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons. Fruit yield was quantified, and post-harvest quality (skin color during ripening, sugar content [°Brix], and texture) as well as ethylene effects were assessed. Fruit yields did not vary among N levels over the two cropping seasons but were significantly lower in 2018 (20.0 t ha⁻¹) compared to 2019 (38.5 t ha⁻¹), illustrating the alternate year-bearing habit of ‘KP’ mangoes. In the 2018 harvest, fruit from trees receiving 25 kg N ha⁻¹ appeared yellow–green compared to those with less N, while fruit from trees with 50 kg N ha⁻¹ exhibited ‘stay green’ skin, indicating that applications of 25 and 50 kg N ha⁻¹ were excessive. There was no ‘stay green’ skin observed in the 2019 harvest, indicating that the environment may also be a contributing factor. The texture of ripe fruit from untreated control trees had the highest flesh resistance. Moreover, ethylene-treated fruit ripened in nine days post-harvest and had significantly lower sugar content than untreated fruit, which ripened in 14 days. This study provides valuable insights into the complex interactions among N application, fruit quality, and yield of ‘KP’ mangoes, highlighting the importance of appropriate N management for a sustainable and environmentally friendly commercial mango production system. Full article

Mangoes are highly valued for their flavor and nutritional content, but their shelf life is limited due to quick ripening and susceptibility to microbial deterioration. The use of salicylic acid and melatonin as postharvest dipping treatments for mango fruits has the potential to significantly improve shelf life while retaining fruit quality. Salicylic acid modulates ethylene synthesis and stress reactions, whereas melatonin provides a strong antioxidant defense. These treatments might be used in postharvest management methods to minimize losses and improve mango marketability. The goal of this study is to look at the effects of salicylic acid and melatonin postharvest treatments on Keitt mango fruit in terms of physiochemical quality, enzyme activity, and ascorbic acid content during cold storage. Fruits were chilled at 5 °C ± 2 and 85 ± 2 percent humidity throughout the 2022–2023 seasons. The treatments were as follows: control (untreated fruits), salicylic acid (1 and 2 mM), and melatonin (200 and 400 mM). Data showed that dipping mango fruits in salicylic acid and melatonin under cold conditions decreased weight loss and fruit decay while improving physiochemical properties such as fruit firmness, total soluble solids (TSS%), total acidity, total sugars, enzyme activities, and ascorbic acid levels over time. In both seasons, dipping mango fruits in a melatonin solution at 200 mM followed by a salicylic acid solution at 1 mM produced the highest values for all examined parameters when compared to the control and other treatments. These findings indicate that postharvest administration of salicylic acid and melatonin can successfully increase the storability and quality of Keitt mangoes under refrigerated circumstances, providing a feasible technique for reducing postharvest losses and increasing marketability. Full article

Postharvest internal disorders (IDs) in mango fruit present a significant challenge to the industry, with their underlying causes still unclear. This study investigated the relationship between fruit maturity and the susceptibility of vapor heat-treated (VHT) ‘B74’ mangoes to IDs in three experiments. In the first experiment, fruit were categorized into three maturity groups based on dry matter content (DMC): <15%, 15–17%, and >17%, using a handheld near-infrared device. Half of the fruit in each group underwent VHT, while the remainder were untreated controls. Flesh cavity with white patches (FCWP) was the only disorder observed exclusively in VHT fruit. The incidence and severity of FCWP was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in fruit with <15% DMC, with 12.4% incidence and a severity score of 0.2 on a 0–3 scale (0: healthy and 3: severely affected), compared to more mature fruit. In the second experiment, the fruits were harvested at early and late maturity stages, with average DMC values of 14.5% and 17.4%, respectively. The fruit was subjected to no VHT, VHT, and VHT following a 12 h pre-conditioning period at 37 ± 1 °C. Consistent with the first experiment, FCWP was observed only in VHT fruit, with early-harvested fruit displaying a significantly higher (p < 0.05) FCWP incidence (26.9%) and severity (0.3) compared to late-harvested fruit (8.3% incidence and 0.1 severity). Pre-conditioning significantly reduced FCWP, particularly in early-harvested fruit. In the third experiment, fruit maturity sorted based on density was assessed, followed by VHT and simulated sea freight under controlled (CA) and ambient atmospheres. Fruit density did not effectively differentiate maturity considering DMC as a maturity indicator. Storage conditions significantly reduced (p < 0.05) flesh browning incidence from 71.1% under ambient conditions to 33.3% under CA. This study highlights fruit maturity as a key factor in the susceptibility of ‘B74’ mangoes to postharvest IDs following VHT. Therefore, sorting fruit based on DMC at harvest or at the packing facility prior to VHT serves as a valuable decision support for reducing IDs in VHT fruit. Further research will explore advanced technologies to enable rapid and efficient fruit sorting based on DMC. Full article

For decades, fruit maturity assessment in the field was challenging for producers, researchers, and food supply agencies. Knowing the maturity stage of the fruit is significant for precision production, harvest, and postharvest management. A prerequisite is to detect and classify fruit of different maturities from the background environment. Recently, deep learning technology has become a widely used method for intelligent fruit detection, due to it having higher accuracy, reliability, and a faster processing speed compared with traditional image-processing methods. At the same time, spectral imaging approaches can predict the maturity stage by acquiring and analyzing the spectral data of fruit samples. These maturity detection methods pay more attention to the species, such as apple, cherry, strawberry, and mango, achieving the mean average precision value of 98.7% in apple fruit. This review provides an overview of the most recent methodologies developed for in-field fruit maturity estimation. The basic principle and representative research output associated with the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques were systematically investigated and analyzed. Challenges, such as environmental factors (illumination condition, occlusion, overlap, etc.), shortage of fruit datasets, calculation, and hardware costs, were discussed. The future research directions in terms of applications and techniques are summarized and demonstrated. Full article

Ultraviolet shortwave (UV-C) is a technology for postharvest fruit disinfection. This study aimed to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) based on the discrete ordinate (DO) radiation model to analyze the distribution of UV-C intensity on whole and minimally processed mangoes within a disinfection chamber and to predict treatments against foodborne pathogens. The mango spears were oriented both parallel and perpendicular to the lamp and positioned at varying distances from the radiation source (50, 75, and 100 mm for spears and 100 mm for whole fruit). CFD simulations integrated with in vitro kinetic parameters enabled predictions of the time and doses needed to inactivate one to three logarithmic units of pathogens on the fruit surface. The highest average radiation intensity values were recorded for the whole mango oriented parallel to the lamp at 100 mm and the spears oriented normally to the lamp at 50 mm. The estimated times to achieve inactivation of one to three logarithmic units of microorganisms ranged from approximately 15 to 6540 s, while the doses necessary for this inactivation were, on average, 1.854, 5.291, and 10.656 kJ/m², respectively. CFD simulations are valuable for optimizing UV-C treatments in large-scale designing from both microbicide and sustainable perspectives. Full article

So far, the metabolic differences between tree-ripened and postharvest-ripened mangoes have largely remained unexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of nutrient substances in mangoes subjected to different ripening methods. An untargeted metabolomic approach based on ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was carried out to investigate the differences between artificially ripened and naturally ripened mangoes. The principal component analysis results indicate a clear separation between the different treatment groups. Variance analysis, fold change, and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were employed to find potential markers. In total, 69 metabolites were identified, with significant variations in the abundance of organic acids, vitamins, carbohydrates, and polyphenols closely related to the ripening methods of mangoes. These results contribute to a better understanding of the metabolic changes in mangoes due to different ripening methods, which could be used to assist in evaluating the quality of mango fruit. Full article