We have studied gene expression in ripe strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) fruits in several Italian Elite varieties, to assess fruit quality and correlate gene expression data with those from biochemical analyses. More than 3000 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) obtained from a fruit cDNA library of cultivar 'Queen Elisa' were analyzed. Over 1800 selected ESTs were used to produce a cDNA microarray. Comparative profiling experiments revealed a limited number of differentially expressed genes, related to important quality and post-harvest traits as fruit firmness and aroma profile. Data of microarray experiments were confirmed by Real Time PCR analyses. Four major genes (cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, Expansin 4 and endo β-1, 4 glucanase) were differentially expressed in soft and firm fruits. An ascorbate peroxidase gene was related to differences in vitamin C levels. Proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) analyses of volatile compounds of fruit head space showed a direct correlation between the emission of esters and differential expression of the alcohol acyl transferase gene involved in their synthesis.

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