Update publication information. Update publication information. Akebia trifoliata (Thunb.) Koidz, can be used as a new potential candidate biofuel and bioenergy crop due to its high productivity, adaptability and tolerance to cultivation conditions. However, the pericarp of A. trifoliata cracks open longitudinally and disperses its seeds along the ventral suture during fruit ripening, which is a serious problem that limits the usefulness of its biofuel feedstocks and causes significant losses of yield and commercial value. Additionally, The fruits of Akebia trifoliata undergo rapid softening during ripening, which has important consequences for postharvest shelf life and consumer acceptance. However, the mechanism of fruit softening is not well understood.