Ultraviolet induced stress response in fresh cut cantaloupe.
Changes in the composition of volatile compounds in cantaloupe melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus) as a result of UV induced stress were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Several volatile ester compounds were present, of which twenty-seven were identified in fresh cut cantaloupe. Fruit exposure to UV light decreased the concentrations of most of the aliphatic esters by over 60% of the amounts present in the corresponding fresh cut fruit. Cyclic and acyclic terpenoids, including phytoalexin compounds beta-ionone, geranylacetone and terpinyl acetate, were also produced as a result of UV exposure for 15 and 60 min, respectively. beta-Ionone, when added to crushed cantaloupe (0.01% w/w) completely inhibited microbial growth in the fruit for 24 h at 20 degrees C. Geranylacetone and terpinyl acetate reduced the microbial population from 6.3x10(8) in the untreated control to 1.2x10(8) and 3.5x10(7) CFU/g respectively. The results indicate the potential use of UV induced stress for screening cantaloupe melon cultivars for disease resistance, and as a minimal processing method to extend the shelf life of fresh cut cantaloupe products.
Lamikanra
Olusola
O
United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA. sola@srrc.ars.usda.gov
Richard
Olga A
OA
Parker
Alesia
A
D028463:Cucumis melo / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004952:Esters / Q000378:metabolism*; D005511:Food Handling; D005638:Fruit / Q000378:metabolism / Q000528:radiation effects; D008401:Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000378:metabolism; D012717:Sesquiterpenes; D013729:Terpenes; D013997:Time Factors; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays; D014835:Volatilization / Q000187:drug effects; D000094162:Phytoalexins
D004952:Esters; D010936:Plant Extracts; D012717:Sesquiterpenes; D013729:Terpenes; D000094162:Phytoalexins