Researchers from Huazhong Agricultural University have published a study in The Plant Journal, revealing the molecular mechanism of esterase CsELT1 in regulating carotenoid and lipid accumulation in citrus fruits.

 

The study found that chromoplast plastoglobules are important for stable storage of β-carotene in citrus fruits. The team established methods to isolate plastoglobules from chromoplasts and analyzed their proteomic and lipidomic profiles. Integrative multi-omics analyses identified the esterase CsELT1 that facilitates β-carotene accumulation by generating a triglyceride-rich environment in plastoglobules.

 

This research revealed the molecular mechanism underlying carotenoid accumulation in citrus fruits, providing valuable insights for breeding citrus varieties with enhanced and stable carotenoid content.