The joint role of the late anthocyanin biosynthetic UFGT-encoding genes in the flowers and fruits coloration of horticultural plants

Flower and fruit color is one of the most important features of horticultural plants. Its formation and regulation are always affected by both internal and external factors. Among these factors, the UDP-glucose: flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UFGTs) have a major role in the development and production of flowers and fruits colors. The UFGT enzymes are critical for upholding anthocyanin synthesis, acylation, and glucosylation in horticulture plants. The functions of the UFGT encoding genes in the formation of pigments, particularly anthocyanin, are summarized in this article. Furthermore, this review article emphasizes the joint role of the UFGTs and other downstream genes in the stabilization of anthocyanin in the final step. The advancement of flower and fruit color regulation research is discussed, with an emphasis on UFGT genes. To give a wide context for flower and fruit color improvements in horticultural plants, the limitations of flower and fruit color research as well as prospective areas for future development are also scrutinized. This review provided resources for a better understanding of the role of UFGT genes in the color formation of flowers and fruits of horticultural plants.