Enhancement of storability and antioxidant systems of sweet cherry fruit by nitric oxide-releasing chitosan nanoparticles (GSNO-CS NPs)

Abstract Sweet cherries rapidly depreciate in market value owing to decay and the quick loss of fruit quality after harvest. Therefore, optimum postharvest treatment is crucial for maintaining the qualities of cherries during storage. Here, we tested a new method of postharvest treatment by immersing sweet cherries in nitric oxide-releasing chitosan nanoparticles (GSNO-CS NPs), storing them at 0 °C and evaluating fruit quality over time. The results indicated that GSNO-CS NPs more effectively preserved the quality of cherries during cold storage compared to other methods. Specifically, GSNO-CS NPs reduced fruit weight loss, respiration rate and ethylene production and increased soluble solids content. Additionally, GSNO-CS NPs reduced reactive oxygen species, increased the antioxidant enzyme activity in direct and indirect antioxidant systems, and increased the levels of ascorbic acid and reduced glutathione. Overall, results suggest that treatment with GSNO-CS NPs can effectively preserve the quality of cherries and enhance antioxidant capacity during cold storage.