Potential value of small-molecule organic acids for the control of postharvest gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea

In the present study, a total of 21 natural or synthetic small-molecule organic acids were selected and determined for their activity against postharvest gray mold caused by B. cinerea. Overall, cuminic acid, which was extracted from the seed of Cuminum cyminum L, showed the most promising antifungal activity against B. cinerea both in vitro and in vivo. The study on action mechanism showed that cuminic acid could inhibit the development of sclerotia and the secretion of oxalic acid, destroy the cell membrane integrity, and down regulate the expression of several key genes involved in sclerotia development and pathogenicity of B. cinerea. Furthermore, cuminic acid could potentially reduce the degradation of TSS and TA content, while it had no significant effect on the weight loss, firmness, and VC content of apple and tomato. Importantly, cuminic acid could enhance the antioxidant enzyme activities of the fruits. All these results demonstrate the antifungal activity and highlight the great potential of cuminic acid as an alternative environmental-friendly agent for the control of postharvest gray mold both on fruits and vegetables. [Display omitted] •Systematic investigated the activity of small-molecule organic acids against B. cinerea.•Explored the potential action mechanism of cuminic acid against B. cinerea.•Evaluated the effect of cuminic acid on the quality of apple and tomato fruits.