Functional analysis of differentially expressed proteins in Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra Sieb. et Zucc.) fruits during ripening

This study developed a proteome reference map of Myrica rubra fruits at the green, pink and red stages during ripening using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). Forty-six differentially expressed proteins were detected in the gel, of which 43 were successfully identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight mass spectrometry and protein database searching. We found that malic enzyme related to the decrease of organic acid acidity was up-regulated. The high abundance of pyruvate decarboxylase and alcohol dehydrogenase may contribute to fruit peculiar fragrant characteristics. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, chalcone synthase 11, UDP-glucose:flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase, and anthocyanidin synthase, enzymes involved in the anthocyanin metabolic pathway, were all up-regulated. The physiological data agree with fruit proteome results. These findings provided insights into the metabolic processes and regulatory mechanisms during Chinese bayberry fruit ripening.