Biosynthesis and Action of Ethylene

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Abstract
Ethylene is a plant hormone which regulates many aspects of growth, development, and senescence (1). Depending upon where and when ethylene occurs, it may be beneficial or harmful to harvested horticultural crops. Efficient postharvest technology therefore requires the ability to control ethylene effects to suit our practical needs. Before ethylene can exert such responses, it has to be biosynthesized by the plants or supplies from external sources. As in the case of other hormones, ethylene is thought to bind to a receptor, forming an activated complex which in turn triggers the primary reaction. The primary reaction then initiates the chain of reactions, including modification of gene expression, and leading to a wide variety of physiological responses (Fig. 1). Thus, there are 4 levels of manipulation we can use to regulate ethylene responses: (a) control the level of ethylene in the tissue by addition or removal of ethylene, (b) regulate the level of ethylene in the tissue by stimulating or inhibiting ethylene biosynthesis, (c) modify the binding characteristics of ethylene to the receptor, or modify the amount of the receptor, and (d) manipulate the ethylene-dependent gene expression.

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