Evaluation the ACC and BABA hormones on the expression of resistance genes in apple fruit challenged with Penicillium expansum

Apple fruit widely suffers from different damages every year including post-harvest diseases such as blue mold (caused by Penicillium expansum). Recent studies have shown the role of hormones in different signaling pathways after a pathogen attack. Hormones may trigger different the expression of genes involved in the resistance mechanism and thus activating the immune system in plants.

qRT-PCR results showed an increase in the expression of PR5, ERF1 and CHIB genes after treatment with BABA in both Golden Delicious and Fuji cultivars. ACC treatment also significantly increased the expression of ERF1 and CHIB genes after challenged with fungal spores. The expression of PR5 and ERF1 was relatively very similar in both cultivars after treatment with BABA and ACC, respectively. In contrast, the expression of CHIB was different in two cultivars, thus showing a 4 times higher expression in Golden delicious in compared to Fuji.  Originality/Value Using of new insecticides with new and widespread mode of action can be recommended against postharvest pest in the practical entomology.

 No limitations were found.

 The results of this study can be important in breeding studies and to select genes involved in the resistance mechanism. In addition, hormones with a positive impact to provide resistance to fungal diseases can be considered as a possible alternative to fungicides.