Effect of electrostatic atomization on ascorbate metabolism in postharvest broccoli

The effects of electrostatic atomization on ascorbate (AsA) metabolism in broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) were studied and the possible molecular mechanisms discussed. Electrostatic atomization, delayed the yellowing process, and ethylene production and respiration rates were significantly suppressed in broccoli after harvest. The AsA content declined rapidly to a lower level in the controls after harvest, and the reduction of AsA was suppressed by the treatment with electrostatic atomization during the storage period. In addition, modulation of the AsA reduction by electrostatic atomization was highly regulated at the transcription level. Up-regulation of the AsA biosynthetic genes (BO-VTC1, BO-VTC2, and BO-GLDH), and AsA regeneration genes (BO-MDAR1, BO-MDAR2, and BO-DHAR) led to the suppression of AsA reduction in broccoli treated with electrostatic atomization after harvest. These results indicated that electrostatic atomization treatment might be a new effective approach for delaying the senescence of broccoli.

► Senescence of broccoli was delayed by electrostatic atomization treatment.
► AsA reduction of broccoli after harvest was suppressed by electrostatic atomization.
► Suppression of AsA reduction was highly regulated at the transcript level.
► Electrostatic atomization was effective in maintaining quality of broccoli after harvest.