Unlocking the Benefits of H2S Gas: A Breakthrough for Postharvest Preservation of Fresh?Produce

In recent years, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been identified as an active gas signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes. Studies have demonstrated that H2S can influence cell proliferation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, as well as induce gene expression and enzyme activity in postharvest fruits and vegetables. One of the primary mechanisms by which H2S exerts its effects is by modifying cysteine residues and altering the antioxidant properties of various cellular reactions. Additionally, H2S has been implicated in seed germination, root development, photosynthesis, biotic and abiotic stress responses, and stomatal movement. Interestingly, the application of H2S has been shown to have a positive impact on the quality of postharvest storage, shelf life, and disease resistance of fruits. Consequently, there has been increased interest in understanding the biochemistry of H2S in plants and its role in fruit and vegetable senescence and postharvest. This article, published in Scientia Horticulturae, provides an overview of H2S biochemistry in plants and its significance in regulating postharvest quality. Specifically, it explores the role of H2S in fruit and vegetable senescence and postharvest and highlights potential applications for this gas-signaling molecule in agriculture. According to the authors, past research on H2S has primarily focused on its poisonous properties at high levels, leading to conflicting outcomes due to its two-phase impact on mitochondrial function. However, it is essential to consider the optimal dosage when using H2S for raw material processing. Notably, H2S acts as a crucial gaseous signaling molecule for plant growth and storage after harvest. Scientists have identified or developed various compounds such as GYY4137, AP39, and NOSH-aspirin to leverage the benefits of H2S. The potential ramifications of H2S in both medicine and agriculture are vast and could have a significant financial impact. By utilizing H2S detection technology, we can enhance the preservation of fruits and vegetables after harvest. Source: Tenghuan Huang, Wei Zhang, Jing Wang, Zhipeng Cai, Yonggen Shen, Jinyin Chen, Liqin Zhu. H2S: A new gas with potential biotechnological applications in postharvest fruit and vegetable storage: An overview. Scientia Horticulturae. Volume 300, 2022 Author:?Jorge Luis?Alonso G. (with ChatGPT)?Maximizing Agribusiness Profits with Expert Postharvest Storage Strategies | Horticultural Writing Specialist.?This article was written exclusively for the business platform Postharvest.