Skip to main content
ARS Home » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #207065
Title: Internal Heat Necrosis of Potato A Review

Author
item MCCORD, PER H. - NCSU
item YENCHO, G.CRAIG - NSCU
item Haynes, Kathleen
item STERRETT, S.B. - VIRGINIA TECH

Submitted to: American Journal of Potato Research
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/24/2007
Publication Date: 1/2/2008
Citation: Mccord, P., Yencho, G., Haynes, K.G., Sterrett, S. 2008. Internal Heat Necrosis of Potato A Review. American Journal of Potato Research. 85:69-76.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Internal heat necrosis (IHN) is an internal physiological disorder of potatoes characterized by necrotic patches of parenchymal tissue inside the vascular ring. It has been described in the literature since the early 20th century, albeit under several different names. ’Atlantic’, a popular and high-yielding chipping cultivar, is highly susceptible to IHN. Several environmental factors mediate this disorder. High day and night temperatures early in the growing season, combined with low rainfall, have been shown to increase the frequency and severity of the disorder, particularly in ‘Atlantic’. Considerable research has examined the role of calcium in ameliorating IHN expression. Much of this work suggests an important role for calcium in the development of IHN, but other biotic and abiotic factors undoubtedly affect IHN expression. The biochemistry and genetics behind IHN have historically been the least researched facets of this problem. Research has shown that enzymes involved in protecting cells from oxidative damage may be involved, and heritability studies have demonstrated that broad-sense heritability for IHN resistance is high. This review seeks to outline previous work on physiological internal necroses of potato, summarize our current knowledge of IHN, and point to new areas of investigation that will facilitate the development of IHN resistant varieties.