Effects of Perillaldehyde\nand Polyamines on Defense\nMechanisms of Sweet Potatoes against <i>Ceratocystis fimbriata</i>

Sweet\npotato (<i>Ipomoea batatas</i>) serves\nas a significant\nfood and economic crop worldwide. However, its production and safety\nare jeopardized by black rot, a disease caused by <i>Ceratocystis\nfimbriata</i>. Although polyamines (PAs) are common biological\ngrowth factors, their function in the storage of fruits and vegetables\nremains poorly understood. This study examines the physiological roles\nof both exogenous and endogenous PAs in <i>C. fimbriata</i>, particularly their metabolism via gene knockout techniques. Additionally,\nwe assessed how exogenous PAs affect sweet potato storage resistance.\nOur findings reveal that PAs are crucial in managing oxidative and\ncell wall stress in <i>C. fimbriata</i>. At high concentrations,\nPAs displayed cytotoxic effects through the upregulation of nitric\noxide synthase (<i>TAH18</i>). Furthermore, exogenous PAs\nsignificantly enhanced the defense mechanisms of sweet potatoes during\nstorage. The concurrent use of perillaldehyde (PAE), a natural antibacterial\ncompound, additionally decreased the incidence of black rot in sweet\npotatoes. This study provides a novel strategy and theoretical basis\nfor the prevention and control of fungal diseases in stored fruits\nand vegetables.