Strigolactone analog 7FGR24 enhances storability of fresh <i>Gastrodia elata</i> by modulating plant hormone signaling

Abstract The demand for fresh Gastrodia elata, a highly valued medicinal and edible herb, has surged in recent years. However, preventing tuber germination during storage remains a significant challenge. Strigolactones (SLs), known to inhibit bud germination, offer a promising solution for extending storage life. This study evaluated the effects of the synthetic SL analog 7FGR24 on the quality and storability of fresh G. elata. The application of 10 μmol/L 7FGR24 effectively suppressed tuber germination, stabilized gastrodin and p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol levels, and improved overall tuber quality. Compared with the control, 7FGR24 significantly reduced respiratory intensity, weight loss, and hardness degradation, while enhancing soluble solids and titratable acidity. Additionally, 7FGR24 inhibited peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities, decreased malondialdehyde levels, and improved antioxidant capacity by enhancing 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging and superoxide dismutase activity. Hormonal analysis revealed elevated indole-3-acetic acid levels and reduced gibberellin A3 and jasmonic acid contents. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified MYC2 as a core transcription factor potentially interacting with MYB4, ZAT10, and PUB20/21 to regulate tuber germination and anti-oxidative responses. Dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that MYC2 can transactivate the promoters of these target genes. The research demonstrates that 7FGR24 prolongs the storability of fresh G. elata by inhibiting bud germination and preserving its medicinal quality, providing a practical and sustainable strategy for the postharvest preservation of this high-value herb.