Propanal May Be a Precursor of Ethylene in Metabolism

Abstract

Propanal, a product of the decomposition of peroxidized linolenate, is a very effective precursor of ethylene in the copper-catalyzed ethylene-forming model system. This aldehyde also stimulates production of ethylene in slices of tissue of mature green tomatoes. We suggest that propanal is a precursor of ethylene in metabolism.