Use of 1-Methylcyclopropene in Ornamentals: Carnations as a Model System for Understanding Mode of Action

Abstract

The first commercial use of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) was with cut flowers and potted plants, and treatment with this compound is still the preferred strategy for protection of most ethylene-sensitive crops. Research is continuing into optimum treatment conditions and strategies for efficient application in commerce. In studies using carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L. 'White Sim') petals to determine the optimal conditions for commercial treatment, we noted some aspects of the inhibition response that were not consistent with the current competitive inhibition model of 1-MCP action. Our data are better explained by an alternative model in which 1-MCP binds to a site that is exposed during the allosteric changes that accompany the enzymatic activities of the binding site in the absence of ethylene.