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Chinese Agricultural Science Bulletin ›› 2026, Vol. 42 ›› Issue (5): 55-61.doi: 10.11924/j.issn.1000-6850.casb2025-0338

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Research Progress on Parthenocarpy in Cucurbitaceae Crops

YU Yangyang1,2(), ZHANG Changyuan1, ZHANG Huiyao1, WU Tingquan1, XIE Qi3, GUO Jinju1()   

  1. 1 Institute of Facility Agriculture, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640
    2 College of Horticulture & Forestry Sciences, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070
    3 Environmental Horticulture Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640
  • Received:2025-04-28 Revised:2025-08-15 Online:2026-03-18 Published:2026-03-18

Abstract:

To promote the breeding and industrial application of parthenocarpic varieties in cucurbit crops, this article reviews the research progress on parthenocarpic germplasm resources, hormonal and environmental induction, genetic inheritance, and key regulatory genes. It highlights existing challenges, such as the scarcity of germplasm resources, the instability of traits due to environmental sensitivity, and the unclear mechanisms of parthenocarpic genes and their regulation. Strategies proposed include integrating fine mapping with multi-omics approaches to identify key genes, establishing a molecular marker-assisted breeding system for multi-locus selection, and creating novel germplasm through genetic engineering techniques. This study provides a theoretical foundation for systematically elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of parthenocarpy, facilitating breeding new varieties, and promoting industrial development.

Key words: Cucurbitaceae crops, parthenocarpy, germplasm resources, plant hormones, genetic inheritance, regulatory genes