Molecular and omics insights into post harvest physiological deterioration in cassava: A review paper

Abstract

Postharvest Physiological Deterioration (PPD) remains a major constraint to cassava storage, utilization, and commercialization due to its rapid onset, oxidative nature, and genotype-specific responses. This review synthesizes molecular and multi-omics advances that have deepened mechanistic understanding of PPD while highlighting progress in breeding, biotechnology, biochemical profiling, and postharvest innovations. Germplasm selection studies increasingly emphasize contrasting PPD phenotypes and farmer-preferred cultivars, enabling relevant molecular insights. Standardized PPD induction protocols and high-throughput imaging have improved reproducibility and supported integrative omics approaches. Proteomic analyses reveal more than 2,400 proteins in cassava roots, with ~300 significantly regulated during early PPD, particularly in oxidative-stress, phenylpropanoid, glutathione-cycling, and fatty-acid oxidation pathways. Metabolomic and biochemical studies consistently associate PPD tolerance with higher phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity, confirming a biochemical basis for delayed deterioration. Functional validation through transgenic expression of ROS-scavenging enzymes, RNA interference of scopoletin-biosynthetic genes, and manipulation of splicing and transcription factors demonstrate causality in modulating PPD onset. Transcriptomic and genomic studies identify thousands of differentially expressed genes and SNPs on key chromosomes, offering candidate loci for breeding. Postharvest interventions such as edible coatings and antioxidant applications complement genetic strategies by slowing biochemical degradation. Despite these advances, challenges persist, including genotype × environment interactions, lack of standardized phenotyping, polygenic control, and regulatory barriers to transgenic deployment. Future research must integrate time-series omics, robust phenotyping platforms, functional validation in farmer-preferred genotypes, and field-level evaluations. Combining molecular breeding, postharvest interventions, and farmer-centered deployment offers the most viable approach for improving cassava shelf life. This review concludes that multi-omics insights, when coupled with practical interventions, provide a strong foundation for developing PPD-resistant cassava cultivars essential for food security and commercial value across tropical regions.