Chapter 3 - Hormonal interactions during fruit development and ripening

Abstract

Angiosperm plants generate fruits that serve two essential functions: the immature fruit protects developing seeds, and the matured fruit enhances seed dissemination. Phytohormones, often known as plant hormones, occur naturally in small biological compounds or substances that have a minimal effect on physiological processes in plants at low concentrations. Phytohormones have been widely investigated for their functions in controlling numerous aspects of plant growth. Moreover, the latest decade has gained significant new insights into their activity throughout growth and maturation in dry and fleshy fruits. Plant growth and development are regulated by various regulatory mechanisms, including a sophisticated network of relations between all identified plant hormone groups and other signaling molecules. Plant hormones are signaling molecules that govern various developmental processes in plants, including fruit development, which results in ripe fruit and viable mature seeds. Abscisic acid, Auxins, cytokinins, ethylene, and gibberellins have all been involved in fruit development at different phases. The principal mediators of ripening and senescence in fleshy and dry fruits are ethylene and abscisic acid. We believe that having this level of knowledge will aid in the development of novel fruit-ripening modification techniques. However, future studies will help us learn more about the variables that control fruit development and ripening.