Post-Harvest Quality Changes and Molecular Responses of Epidermal Wax in ‘Munage’ Grapes with Botrytis cinerea Infection
‘Munage’ grapes from Xinjiang are susceptible to a fungus called Botrytis cinerea that causes gray mold during storage. The fungus dissolves the protective waxy coating on the grape surface, leading to faster deterioration. The study identified specific genes and proteins that control wax production, which could help scientists develop better storage methods and disease prevention strategies to keep grapes fresher longer.