Use of DNA markers in breeding programs to increase the post-harvest shelf life of fruits (A review)

Breeding research involves the widespread adoption of biotechnological methods. In this context, the use of DNA marking is of particular relevance. This method allows identifi cation of parental varieties with longterm, genetically determined post-harvest shelf life and, on this basis, selection of hybrid off spring before the seedlings begin bearing fruit. Enzymes and their coding genes that participate in the above metabolic processes were identifi ed. A relationship between the alleles of the Md-ACO1 and Md-ACS1 genes and the intensity of ethylene biosynthesis was determined. Fruit pulp softening during storage was found to depend on the enzymatic activity of expansin ( Md-Exp7 gene) and ethylene-dependent endopolygalacturonase ( Md-PG1 gene). Identifi cation of the genetic sources of the breeding-priority alleles of the Md-ACS1 , Md-ACO1 , Md-Exp7 , and Md-PG1 genes using DNA markers is successfully used in practical breeding work by both domestic and foreign researchers. This approach facilitates the identifi cation of the allelic composition of genes responsible for the shelf life of apple fruits.