Postharvest Physiology of Fruits

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Abstract
The capacity for synthesis and the metabolic control of cellular changes are retained following removal of the fruit from the tree, although it is not yet clear how these controls function in the development of the particular cellular organization associated with ripening and senescence. The action of ethylene in inducing and accelerating the transitional changes involved and the relation of respiration and the mitochondria to the synthetic activity preceding and accompanying ripening appear to be of primary significance. Since protein synthesis is basically involved in maintaining cellular repair and enzyme synthesis, this phase of metabolism during the postharvest period is in need of more intensive investigation, particularly in regard to the synthesis of enzymes associated with ripening. Intermediary and abnormal metabolism in relation to fruit condition and quality are in need of more intense consideration. Extensive disorganization of protoplasts, is coincident with the climacteric and ripening of pears.