UV4quality: Improving quality of greenhouse crops using UV light

In Sweden, the majority of vegetable crop plants is produced in greenhouses, in which the UV component of sunlight is lacking. This results in stragglier more vulnerable plants with lower nutritional value. Low doses of supplementary ultraviolet light can compensate for this by regulating plant morphogenesis and metabolism via dedicated UV-B photoreceptors. We will reveal the genetic and physiological mechanisms of this UV regulation and increase the quality of greenhouse-grown products. This research will strengthen the competitive position of Swedish herb industry by yielding products of higher quality with: 1. increased phytochemical content important for taste, scent, coloration, and human health; 2. increased sturdiness and increased resistance towards handling and transport.