Explain the role of plant growth regulators in fruit development (6).

Plant growth regulators (PGRs), also known as plant hormones, play crucial roles in fruit development. Auxins are essential for fruit set and initial growth, preventing the premature shedding of young fruits. Gibberellins promote cell enlargement and division, leading to increased fruit size and can induce the development of seedless fruits (parthenocarpy). Finally, ethylene is a key regulator of fruit ripening, initiating changes in color, texture, aroma, and sugar content.