Fluroxypyr—a potential surrogate of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid for retarding calyx senescence in postharvest citrus fruit

摘要: Abstract Searching for an effective and safer alternative to the citrus fruit preservative 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-d) is issue of common concern in citrus-producing countries. In this study, 27 structural functional analogues 2,4-d were preliminarily selected from ZINC database by computer virtual screening. Four varieties fresh fruits harvested three consecutive mature seasons applied experimental tests, aiming precisely evaluate preservation effects a comprehensive comparison with corresponding indices 2,4-d. The results indicated that fluroxypyr, which has lower toxicity than 2,4-d, significantly reduced calyx senescence decay without affecting internal quality fruit. Therefore, it can be speculated fluroxypyr storage.