Genetic Variation, Polyploidy, Hybridization Influencing the Aroma Profiles of Rosaceae Family

Background: The fragrance and aroma of Rosaceae plants are complex traits influenced by a multitude of factors, with genetic variation standing out as a key determinant which is largely impacted by polyploidy. Polyploidy serves as a crucial evolutionary mechanism in plants, significantly boosting genetic diversity and fostering speciation. Objective: This review focuses on the Rosaceae family, emphasizing how polyploidy influences the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are essential for the aromatic characteristics of economically important fruits like strawberries, apples, and cherries. The review delves into the biochemical pathways responsible for VOC biosynthesis, particularly highlighting the roles of terpenoids, esters alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, phenolics, hydrocarbons, alongside the genetic mechanisms that regulate these pathways. Key enzymes, such as terpene synthases and alcohol acyltransferases, are central to this process. This review further explores how polyploidy and hybridization can lead to the development of novel metabolic pathways, contributing to greater phenotypic diversity and complexity in fruit aromas. It underscores the importance of gene dosage effects, isoenzyme diversity, and regulatory elements in determining VOC profiles. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights for breeding strategies aimed at improving fruit quality and aligning with consumer preferences. Present review not only elucidates the complex interplay between genomic evolution and fruit aroma but also offers a framework for future investigations in plant biology and agricultural innovation.