What are the inhibitors of ethylene biosynthesis?

Inhibitors of Ethylene Biosynthesis

Ethylene, a gaseous plant hormone, plays a crucial role in various physiological processes throughout a plant’s life cycle. However, controlling ethylene production is essential to regulate plant growth and development and extend the shelf life of produce. Inhibitors of ethylene biosynthesis provide effective tools to manipulate ethylene levels and study its multifaceted effects.

1. Inhibitors of ACC Synthase

1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) is a precursor to the synthesis of ethylene. ACC synthase is the enzyme responsible for converting S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) into ACC. Inhibitors of ACC synthase, such as aminooxyacetic acid (AVG), block the production of ACC, thereby suppressing ethylene biosynthesis.

2. Inhibitors of Ethylene Receptors

Ethylene exerts its effects by binding to specific receptors on the plant cell surface. Silver ions (Ag+) and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) are two well-known inhibitors of ethylene receptors. These compounds bind to the receptors, preventing ethylene binding and subsequent signal transduction. As a result, ethylene’s effects on plant growth and development are diminished.

3. Silver

Silver ions (Ag+) have been used for decades as an inhibitor of ethylene action. Silver ions bind to ethylene receptors, blocking their ability to bind ethylene and initiate the downstream signaling cascade. This inhibition results in reduced ethylene responsiveness, affecting various physiological processes, including fruit ripening, flower senescence, and leaf abscission.

4. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP)

1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is a potent inhibitor of ethylene receptors that has gained significant commercial use. It is a cyclic olefin that binds irreversibly to ethylene receptors, preventing ethylene binding and ethylene-mediated responses. 1-MCP is commonly used to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by suppressing ethylene-induced ripening and senescence.

Applications of Ethylene Inhibitors

Inhibitors of ethylene biosynthesis have various applications in plant science and horticulture:

• Study of Ethylene’s Role: Inhibitors help researchers understand the specific roles of ethylene in different plant processes by selectively blocking its production or action.
• Crop Management: Ethylene inhibitors can prolong the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by delaying ripening and senescence, reducing spoilage, and maintaining produce quality.
• Plant Breeding: Inhibitors can be used to create plants with altered ethylene production, leading to improved stress tolerance, enhanced yield, and desirable agronomic traits.

In conclusion, inhibitors of ethylene biosynthesis, such as AVG, silver, and 1-MCP, provide invaluable tools for manipulating ethylene production and elucidating its intricate roles in plant biology. These inhibitors have significant applications in agriculture, horticulture, and scientific research, enabling researchers and growers to better understand and control plant growth and development.