Integrated analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic data reveals how slurry ice treatment affects sugar metabolism in sweet corn (Zea mays L. var saccharata) during cold storage

Sweet corn rapidly loses its sweetness, along with other nutrients, once it is harvested, which reduces its economic value. The present study was conducted to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms by which a rapid cooling slurry ice (SI) treatment followed by storage at 0 ± 0.5°C extends the postharvest quality of sweet corn relative to slower direct cooling at 0 ± 0.5°C. In this study, we found that SI treatment can maintain the appearance quality of sweet corn and inhibit grain shrinkage, respiration, and ethylene release. SI treatment delayed the aging of corn by regulating the expression levels of genes and the levels of metabolites. SI treatment also maintains its carbohydrate content, which is mainly related to starch and sucrose metabolism, glycolysis, citric acid cycle, pentose phosphate pathway, and cutin biosynthesis. The results provide a possible target for improving the postharvest quality of sweet corn.