Mechanism of Intermittent Hypobaric Affecting the Postharvest Quality of Cassava Roots: An Integrated Analysis Based on Respiration, Energy Metabolism, and Transcriptomics

Intermittent Hypobaric Storage (IHS) effectively inhibits postharvest deterioration of cassava roots, yet its physiological regulatory mechanisms and associated quality alterations remain poorly understood. This study investigated the regulatory mechanisms of root respiratory physiology under IHS and their impact on quality. Results indicate that IHS reduces root respiration rates and maintains generally low anaerobic respiration enzyme activity, while ATP content remains higher than in the control. This supports efficient energy supply for cellular metabolism, thereby delaying senescence. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that IHS modulates glycolytic genes, suppresses excessive anaerobic respiration, and upregulates pathways associated with ribosome biogenesis and oxygen response. Meanwhile, IHS downregulated ATP-consuming pathways involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. IHS effectively prolongs shelf life and preserves the nutritional quality of cassava roots, maintaining levels comparable to those of fresh roots. These molecular responses collectively support the physiological and biochemical benefits of IHS, providing valuable insights for optimizing its application in cassava postharvest storage.