Transcriptomic, metabolomic, and physiological analysis of two varieties of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) that differ in their storability

Abstract

The storability of two different varieties of Chinese cabbage was evaluated. Results indicated that' Beijing New No.3′ (N3) exhibited longer storage life and better postharvest quality than' Beijing New No.1′ (N1). Relative to N1, N3 had a lower rate of fresh weight loss and rot development during the latter period of storage (125 days). Ethylene generation and the respiration rate of N3 cabbage were also lower than they were in N1 cabbage over the entire storage period. Chlorophyll (Chl) content was lower in N3 cabbage and the ACS, ACO and ACC enzyme activity were also lower than those in N1 cabbage. Additionally, the relative expression level of COL1, JAZ, MYC2, LOX, ACS, ACO, EBF, EIN3, ERF, and MKK in N1 Chinese cabbage increased, during storage in both varieties, while the relative expression of CDPK, COL1, CAML, and PAL decreased. These results provide valuable information on the storability and quality of Chinese cabbage, especially in relationship to plant hormone levels. The collective data indicate that N3 Chinese cabbage has better storability and postharvest quality than N1.