The central role of ERF1A in ripening delay induced by UV-C in peach fruit

The ripening of climacteric fruits, such as peach, is a complex process regulated by internal signals and external cues, including phytohormones and environmental stimuli. Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) irradiation has been shown to delay ripening and extend the shelf life of postharvest fruits, yet the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the role of Ethylene Response Factor ERF1A in the UV-C-induced ripening delay of peach fruit. Using transcriptomic, biochemical, and metabolomic approaches, we explored the tissue-specific responses of peach fruit (Prunus persica) to UV-C treatment, examining both the peel and flesh tissues independently. Our results reveal that UV-C treatment modulates ethylene biosynthesis and signaling pathways and significantly alters the expression of ripening-related transcription factors, including ERF1A. RNAi-mediated silencing of ERF1A demonstrated its crucial role in UV-C-mediated ripening delay, as evidenced by changes in ethylene production, fruit firmness, and the accumulation of ripening-associated metabolites. Furthermore, our proteomic analysis identified several ERF1A-target genes and highlighted the impact of ERF1A silencing on the metabolism of sugars, phenolic compounds, and volatiles. Collectively, these findings provide new insights into the molecular and physiological mechanisms driving UV-C-induced ripening delay in peach and underscore the central role of ERF1A in modulating this process.