Elspeth MacRae
Papers
1
Total Citations
153
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1
About
Dr. Elspeth MacRae is a leading plant biologist whose research focuses on fruit development, starch metabolism, and the molecular mechanisms underlying crop quality. Her major contributions center on unraveling how kiwifruit and other species accumulate and mobilize starch, a process critical for flavor and postharvest ripening. Her highly cited 2013 study on kiwifruit metabolism—garnering over 150 citations—revealed key metabolic hallmarks distinguishing starch-storing fruits like kiwifruit and banana from those that accumulate soluble sugars directly. This work has profound implications for breeding programs and agricultural practices aimed at improving fruit sweetness and shelf life. Dr. MacRae’s research integrates metabolomics, genetics, and physiology, providing foundational insights into carbon partitioning in plants. Her achievements include leading interdisciplinary teams and translating fundamental discoveries into practical applications for the horticulture industry. With a career dedicated to understanding how fruits develop their unique traits, she has significantly advanced our knowledge of plant metabolism and its impact on food quality.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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