The results presented in “The anthocyanin biosynthetic regulator MdMYB1 positively regulates ascorbic acid biosynthesis in apple” (An et al., this issue) provide evidence for a new mechanism for the elevation of ascorbate concentration in apple. Using a red-fleshed apple breeding population, the authors show how the anthocyanin-regulating MYB transcription factor, MdMYB1, also increases ascorbate concentrations by directly activating transcription of the dehydroascorbate reductase gene . This gene recycles oxidized ascorbate back to ascorbate, leading to elevated concentrations of vitamin C. These red-fleshed apples have enhanced concentrations of both anthocyanins and ascorbate, both of which are appealing traits for the development of healthier apples.
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