Biosynthesis of phenolic compounds and its regulation in apple

This paper summarises the information on the occurrence of phenolic compoun ds in apple Malus domestica leaves and fruits with special reference to the ir developmental changes and regulation of biosynthesis. Besides the ontoge netic variation in biosynthesis and accumulation, the stress-induced and pa thogenesis-related changes are emphasised. Aspects of commercial importance are addressed, ranging from fruit colouration, through disease resistance, to the direct use of apple tissues, as raw material for the extraction of bioactive phenolic compounds.