Melatonin application inhibits anthocyanin biosynthesis in postharvest peach fruit as revealed by transcriptional and <scp>liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometric</scp> analysis

The application of melatonin inhibited anthocyanin synthesis in peach fruit, as evidenced by the suppression of upstream transcriptional regulation, gene expression, and downstream metabolite accumulation. This effect may be associated with melatonin's inhibition of ethylene production. Further in-depth studies are needed to provide more detailed validation at the molecular level. The results have elucidated the underlying mechanisms responsible for the postharvest changes in the flesh phenotype of 'Baifeng' peaches following melatonin treatment. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.