Multi-omics approaches identify a key gene, PpTST1, for organic acid accumulation in peach

Organic acid content in fruit is an important determinant of peach organoleptic quality, and undergoes considerable variations during development and maturation. However, its molecular mechanism remains largely unclear. In this study, an integrative approach of genome-wide association studies and comparative transcriptome analysis was applied to identify candidate genes involved in organic acid accumulation in peach. A key gene, PpTST1, encoding tonoplast sugar transporter, was identified and the genotype of PpTST1 with a single-base transversion (G1584T) in the third exon that leads to a single amino acid substitution (Q528H) was associated with a low level of organic acid content in peach. Overexpression of PpTST1(His) resulted in reduced organic acid content along with increased sugar content both in peach and tomato fruits, suggesting its dual function in sugar accumulation and organic acid content reduction. Two V-type proton ATPases interacted with PpTST1 in a yeast two-hybrid assay. In addition, the G1584T transversion appeared and gradually accumulated during domestication and improvement, which indicated that PpTST1 was under selection. The identification and characterization of PpTST1 would facilitate the improvement of peach fruit quality.