Molecular Investigations of Peach Post-Harvest Ripening Processes and VOC Biosynthesis Pathways: A Review Focused on Integrated Genomic, Transcriptomic, and Metabolomic Approaches

Peach (Prunus persica L.) represents a very important model plant given its small and publicly accessible genome, the availability of homozygous doubled haploids, and its taxonomic similarity to other popular stone fruits. Albeit it is an economically important crop with a great production potential, the consumption of peach is still considered low in comparison with that of other fresh fruits, such as apple and banana. A way to increase it could be to improve its quality and aroma, which tend to be affected during the often-prolonged storage and transport periods. Recently, substantial research efforts have been directed towards the characterisation of the regulatory mechanisms underlying the hormonal, transcriptomic, and metabolomic changes happening during peach fruit post-harvest ripening. Biosynthesis pathways of volatile organic compounds related to changes in aroma have also been investigated. Due to advances in next-generation sequencing, new insights into the molecular functions of peach genes have been gained. Studies have mapped out the molecular bases of peach fruit post-harvest ripening using a multi-omics approach, combining genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic methods. This review aims to discuss the most relevant recent research results in this area in order to provide a useful starting point for researchers in the field and future perspectives for improving peach quality.