Molecular mechanism of postharvest quality deterioration in Stropharia rugosoannulata based on transcriptomics and metabolomics.

Postharvest deterioration in Stropharia rugosoannulata involves 2,955 genes and 43 metabolites linked to key metabolic pathways, affecting shelf life and quality.

• Why it matters: Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind postharvest decline is crucial for improving preservation strategies and extending the commercial viability of this mushroom species.
• What they did: The study conducted transcriptome sequencing and untargeted metabolomics on cap tissues at three storage stages, identifying differentially expressed genes and metabolites, and mapping them to metabolic pathways.
• The result: Findings reveal coordinated changes in carbohydrate metabolism, cell wall degradation, and reactive oxygen species pathways, providing targets for developing molecular-based preservation methods.