Jungui Xu , Zizhong Wang

Guangzhou Wengwengweng Technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, 510670, Guangdong, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 5   doi: 10.5376/ijh.2024.14.0031
Received: 21 Jul., 2024    Accepted: 11 Sep., 2024    Published: 30 Sep., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Xu J.G., and Wang Z.Z., 2024, Genetic study of pigment synthesis and related genes in dragon fruit, International Journal of Horticulture, 14(5): 297-309 (doi: 10.5376/ijh.2024.14.0031)

The pigments in dragon fruit, including betalains, carotenoids, and flavonoids, not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the fruit but also offer various health benefits. Understanding the genetic mechanisms behind pigment synthesis is crucial for developing new varieties of dragon fruit with improved color and nutritional properties. This study explores the genetic mechanisms of pigment synthesis in dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.), focusing on the biosynthetic pathways and key genes involved in the production of betalains, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Through genomic analyses and biochemical characterizations, essential genes such as CYP76AD1, DODA1, and MYB transcription factors were identified as playing critical roles in pigment production, contributing to the vibrant coloration of dragon fruit. The study also examines the impact of environmental factors on pigment synthesis and the potential applications of dragon fruit pigments in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the genetic regulation of pigment synthesis in dragon fruit, offering significant implications for breeding programs and cultivation practices aimed at enhancing the fruit's color intensity and nutritional value.

Dragon fruit; Pigment synthesis; Betalains; Carotenoids; Flavonoids; Genetic regulation; Biosynthetic pathways