plant-metabolism
Plant metabolism encompasses the complex network of biochemical reactions within plant cells that convert energy and raw materials into the compounds needed for growth, reproduction, and defense. Understanding these metabolic pathways is fundamental to plant science, as they govern how plants synthesize sugars through photosynthesis, produce secondary metabolites for protection against herbivores and pathogens, and respond to environmental stress. Insights into plant metabolism have broad applications, from improving crop yields and nutritional profiles to developing sustainable sources of pharmaceuticals and biofuels.
open_in_new WikipediaPubMed · 2026-04-01
A new review examines how fruits use special 'alternative' energy pathways in their cells during growth and ripening, revealing these pathways are critical for maintaining metabolic balance rather than just being biochemical sideshows.
Alternative respiratory pathways — including alternative oxidase, uncoupling proteins, and type II NAD(P)H dehydrogenases — are now recognized as central regulators of fruit ripening, not minor metabolic curiosities.
These pathways support both primary metabolism (energy production) and secondary metabolism (flavor compounds, pigments, antioxidants) by maintaining redox and energy balance in fruit cells.
The classical climacteric vs. non-climacteric fruit distinction is being revisited in light of new evidence about how these alternative mitochondrial components function differently across fruit types.