• Effect of H 2 S in potential biotechnology applications of fruits and vegetables was reviewed. • Function of protein was regulated by H 2 S through autophagy and post-translational modification (PTMs). • Gene expressions, defense enzyme systems and sulfide biological activities were induced by H 2 S. • H 2 S applied exogenously has beneficial effects on regulating senescence and disease resistance of fruits and vegetables during storage. Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) is a new gas signal molecule involved in many physiological processes, including plant growth and development, senescence and oxidative stress. It has been shown that H 2 S reduces damage induced by biotic and abiotic stresses, regulates the ripening and postharvest storage of climacteric and non-climacteric fruits and vegetables, thus maintaining the nutritional and edible value of postharvest fruits and vegetables. In this regard, H 2 S has huge prospects for application in improving the nutrition index and the quality of fruits and vegetables by stimulating the expression of defense genes and inducing disease resistance. Accordingly, this approach can supplement the current storage strategy of fruits and vegetables to maintain the postharvest quality and enhance its additional output value. This review mainly summarizes the biochemistry of H 2 S, and the latest information on the role of H 2 S in the senescence, disease resistance and postharvest stages of fruits and vegetables, providing a theoretical basis for the application and popularization of H 2 S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]